Whenever I hear anyone question the origin of something, I consistently and predictably answer with some sort of explanation attributing the Greek culture, and Valentine’s Day is no different. Though Valentine’s Day is a widely celebrated American holiday, its origins are rooted in Greek mythology. The chubby cherub whom Hallmark now centers its Valentine’s displays around was once known to the Greeks as the god of love, Eros. Eros was said to have been born out of Chaos and became known as the son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. Though the god was known to spark love amongst both gods and humans, Eros’s legend deals much with his own love affair with a human once forbidden by his mother but which finally was permitted by Zeus, father of the gods and ruler of mankind.
Though Valentine’s Day is not as much of a popular or commercialized holiday in Greece, some Greeks still acknowledge its original importance as a day to recognize and commemorate the holy marriage between Zeus and his wife, Hera. They simply celebrate with enjoyment of their appreciation of great love and romance.
Because the significance of Valentine’s Day in both American and Greece is so similar, I appreciate it being one of the less conflictive and more carefree holidays to celebrate for Greek Americans. After all, the day’s overall purpose is a positive one that luckily translates amongst most cultures, and it is that fact which makes it easy to put a proud cultural touch on your Valentine’s Day festivities (especially helpful to know if you happen to be dating a Greek girl). One of my favorite Greek merchandise websites, Greekshops.com, provides great examples of cute Valentine’s Day gifts with a Greek touch. To take a look at these, go to http://www.greekshops.com/Gifts/Romantic_Gifts.html?sdi=186.
Though Valentine’s Day is not as much of a popular or commercialized holiday in Greece, some Greeks still acknowledge its original importance as a day to recognize and commemorate the holy marriage between Zeus and his wife, Hera. They simply celebrate with enjoyment of their appreciation of great love and romance.
Because the significance of Valentine’s Day in both American and Greece is so similar, I appreciate it being one of the less conflictive and more carefree holidays to celebrate for Greek Americans. After all, the day’s overall purpose is a positive one that luckily translates amongst most cultures, and it is that fact which makes it easy to put a proud cultural touch on your Valentine’s Day festivities (especially helpful to know if you happen to be dating a Greek girl). One of my favorite Greek merchandise websites, Greekshops.com, provides great examples of cute Valentine’s Day gifts with a Greek touch. To take a look at these, go to http://www.greekshops.com/Gifts/Romantic_Gifts.html?sdi=186.
Ευτυχισμενη μερα του Αγιου Βαλεντινου!
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