Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day is a combination of various rituals,
myths, beliefs as well as superstitions, which have
>been handed down from one generation to the next.
It combines ancient pagan rituals andChristian beliefs into one day. Although
it is more commercialised today with an emphasis onexchanging or receiving gifts, it still remains
a day for lovers and friends. It is a day when we want tospend time with our mates and friends, but also
lets take time to remember the love that Saint Valentine; Patron of Valentine's Day had for
our Lord Jesus Christ.
Early Valentine Customs
Valentine's Day can also be traced back to the
ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, which was held on the 15th to ensure protection from wolves.
When the Romans conquered Britain in 43 A.D., the British adopted many of the Roman festivals.
Lupercalia is linked with Valentine's Day because of the date and connection to fertility.
During the Middle Ages in both France and England,
it is said that half way through the month of February, which is the 14th, was the time when
birds began to pair. This is the reason why that day was specially sanctified for lovers.
It was also looked upon as an occasion for writing love letter and sending lovers' tokens.
French and English literature of the 14th and 15th century contain references to this practice. The earliest
can be found in the 34th and 35th "Ballads" of the poet, John Gower. There are also examples written
by Lydgate and Clauvowe.
Some historians trace the sending of verses on
Valentine's Day back to as early as the 1400's in England. They attribute this to a Frenchman
by the name of Charles, Duke of Orleans who wascaptured by the British during the Battle of
Agincourt in 1415. While imprisoned, he sent his wife a rhymed love letter on Valentine's Day, from his
cell.
During the 1700's, unmarried women supposedly
pinned five bay leaves to their pillow on Valentine's Eve. One was pinned in the centre with
the other four in each corner. It is said that by doing this they would see their future husband in their
dreams.
Modern Day Customs
In Canada, the United States and most Western
countries, Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14th. On this day sending valentines to
their loved one, family members and friends is still the most popular custom. Valentines come in a variety
of styles ranging from humorous to the romantic verses. Another
popular custom is that of giving chocolates which usually comes in a fancy decorated heart shaped box, flowers, jewellery
or other gift to friends and loved ones. Teachers of elementary students will often hold Valentine
Parties where the children exchange cards with their friends and classmates. Often the classroom
is decorated with paper hearts and so forth which the children have previously made. Many secondary
or high schools will hold a special Valentine's Day dance.
Many European countries have their own special
rituals, which are associated with Valentine's Day.In Britain children receive gifts of candy, fruit
or money. They also have special songs, which are reserved for Valentine's Day. Valentine
buns made with caraway seeds, plums, or raisins are also popular in parts of England.
In Denmark, it is customary to send pressed white
flowers called snowdrops to their friends. The men also send a valentine, which is called a
gaekkebrev, which means a joking or fun letter. The sender writes a rhyme but instead of signing
his name. He uses dots for each letter in his name. At Easter, woman who correctly guessed the name
of the sender receives an Easter egg from that person.
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