14th Read: A Celebration of Love and Literature
The History of 14th Read
14th Read, also known as Valentine's Day, is a celebration held on February 14th of every year. The day is associated with love, romance, and friendship. The origins of Valentine's Day can be traced back to ancient Roman and Christian traditions.
The Legend of Saint Valentine
According to legend, Saint Valentine was a Christian priest who lived in Rome during the 3rd century AD. At that time, Emperor Claudius II had outlawed marriage for young men because he believed that single men made better soldiers. Saint Valentine defied the emperor's decree and continued to perform marriages in secret. When Emperor Claudius II discovered this, he had Valentine arrested and executed on February 14th.
During his imprisonment, Saint Valentine is said to have healed the daughter of his jailer and converted her and others to Christianity. Before his execution, Saint Valentine wrote a letter to the jailer's daughter, signing it "From your Valentine," which is where the modern-day expression comes from.
Modern-Day Celebrations
Today, Valentine's Day is celebrated in many countries around the world. People show their love and appreciation for one another by exchanging gifts, flowers, and cards. Couples often go on romantic dates, and friends and family gather to celebrate their relationships.
Literary Connections
Literature has played a significant role in shaping the modern-day celebration of Valentine's Day. In the 14th century, the poet Geoffrey Chaucer wrote Parlement of Foules, a poem that linked Saint Valentine's Day with courtly love. Chaucer's poem popularized the idea of linking Valentine's Day with romantic love, and it has since become a central theme of the celebration.
In the 18th century, the tradition of exchanging love letters and gifts became popular in England. The Industrial Revolution brought mass production of greeting cards, further commercializing the holiday.
Celebrating Love and Literature
On this 14th Read, take a moment to appreciate the power of love and literature in our lives. Whether it's a romantic partner, a dear friend, or a beloved family member, celebrate the special people in your life.
Pick up a book that celebrates love, such as Romeo and Juliet or Pride and Prejudice. Write a letter or create a handmade card to express your feelings to someone special. Whatever you choose, remember the spirit of Saint Valentine and the joy of sharing love and literature with others.
