In many different parts of the world, February fourteenth is a day known for romance, filled with love and appreciation for loved ones. Phrases involving the word “valentine” are often plastered all over stores and merchandise at this time. Buying gifts such as chocolates and flowers is popular among loved ones. Though Valentine's Day has become a crucial holiday in many places, its origin story may not match up to the warm and loving feeling the holiday now brings.
The holiday is originally named after St. Valentine, who has several different legends explaining his story. All versions of the story include St. Valentine being killed/martyred. One legend, which originated from the catholic church, claims that Valentine was a priest in Rome during the third century. At this time Emperor Claudius II made the decision that single men were better fighters, so he banned marriage for all young men. However, Valentine did not believe this law was right so he continued to perform marriages secretly. Once he was discovered, the Emperor ordered him to be put to death.
Another legend believes that Valentine was killed for attempting to help Christians escape from Roman prisons. These prisons were extremely harsh and dangerous. Last but not least, another story suggests that Valentine wrote the first “valentine” while in prison. It is thought that he wrote a love letter to a young girl he had fallen for, which he signed with “From your Valentine”. This may be where we got this expression from for today’s Valentine’s Day.
In all of the legends, Valentine is portrayed as a heroic and somewhat romantic man, his story contributing to all the attributes of Valentine’s Day. We can owe our chocolates, flowers, and love letters to the works of St. Valentine.
Image Source: https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/valentines-day-february-14
Source: https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2