One of the ways in which the term “love” is often used is in reference to romantic love, a kind of love that the ancient Greeks would call “eros” (see Types of Love above)–an emotion and a state of being that involves a strong desire and longing for another person, and can often have physical aspects. Romantic love (or romance) has been a main subject of the human experience and imagination, of philosophy, art, and everyday life, ever since the dawn of humankind. Most people experience it at least once in their lifetimes, and it is a very important part of life that is one of nature’s main avenues for ensuring the reproduction of the human race.

The history of romantic love and the way it has been perceived in society and throughout different cultures is very interesting, since the current widespread perception of romance as related to romantic relationships or marriage was not always the case. In fact, in earlier times, especially in the Middle Ages in Europe, but also in many other cultures, marriage was a social institution mostly, if not fully, unconnected to romantic love, and instead served economic, social and political purposes. Hence the practice of “courtly love” developed, mainly with the medieval troubadour poets, who would write love songs and poems to ladies of high stature, and declare their love for them. Courtly love outside of marriage was a socially accepted way of dealing with personal romantic feelings that were not expected to be found in marriages.

Romantic love has been an inspiration for many modern artists as well, from painters and poets to songwriters and filmmakers. For more info on the influence of romantic love in art, check out the “Romance in Art” tab above.