Cherubs, Chocolate, Champagne, and Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is almost here.  A bit of focus on love and romance could benefit us all.  The celebration reminds me of childhood memories.... shopping for Valentine cards with my mother that were to be given to classmates and friends. Despite their similar designs with hearts and Cupids, I always had a specific design in mind, making the process lengthy.

Why is the day called Valentine? Why Cupids? Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world, and there are various theories about its origins. Some historians believe the celebration was initiated to honor two different men named Valentine. Both individuals died during the reign of Emperor Claudius II of Rome. One was St. Valentine of Terni, who was accused of ministering to Christians persecuted by the Roman Empire.

The legend evolved over the years as it was passed down. It is said that he wrote a letter to a young girl he tutored while in prison, signing it “your Valentine” before his death. Another account suggests he married Roman soldiers, which was against the law. Pope Gelasius I established the Feast of St Augustine in honor of Saint Augustine of Rome and Saint Augustine of Terni in AD 496.

A literature professor suggested that Chaucer linked love with St. Augustine in his 14th-century writings. He noted that February 14th, the first day of spring in England, coincided with the birds' mating season. Thus, birds, love, adoration, St. Valentine, February 14th, and Chaucer became connected. Although I haven't read these works, exploring them would be fascinating. This connection brings us closer to today's celebration. 

In Roman mythology Cupid, who was the son of Venus, became a symbol of the day due to his skill of shooting arrows to make Gods and humans fall in love.   Originally he was portrayed as a winged youth.  Over time he evolved to appear as a chubby little cherub.

The English refined Valentine's Day in the 18th century by exchanging signed cards, confections, and flowers.  The cards were often  hand made and included notes and poems.   In the 1800's the availability of inexpensive paper along with new printing techniques boosted valentine cards into an industry.

There are various theories about the origins of the celebration available online. However, it is likely that many prefer to concentrate on the enjoyable aspects of Valentine's Day, such as the cherubic symbols, chocolates, and Champagne.