When did it all start?
There are various theories on the origin of Valentine's Day, but the most popular dates back to the time of the Roman Empire during the reign of Claudius II, 270 AD. Claudius didn't want men to marry during wartime because he believed single men made better soldiers. Bishop Valentine went against his wishes and performed secret wedding ceremonies. For this, Valentine was jailed and then executed by order of the Emperor on February 14. While in jail, he wrote a love note to the jailor's daughter signing it, "From your Valentine." ‘Sound familiar?
I learned about St. Valentine in a "Medieval Heroes and Villains" class in college. That was the version we read. I think it gives a deeper, better view on Valentine's day. :)
ReplyDeleteRachel