-
2100 BCE
The Epic of Gilgamesh and Enkidu
The Epic of Gilgamesh tells the story of the tyrannical king Gilgamesh and his transformative friendship with Enkidu, a wild man created to challenge him, which ultimately leads to personal growth and a deeper understanding of humanity. Their bond exemplifies the theme of love through loyalty, sacrifice, and emotional connection, showcasing how profound friendships can shape individuals and endure through life's trials. -
1100 BCE
Samson and Delilah
The story of Samson and Delilah unfolds as a tragic tale of a powerful Nazarite, Samson, who falls in love with Delilah, leading to his betrayal and eventual downfall when she reveals his secret to the Philistines. This narrative explores the complexities of love, illustrating how it can both empower and blind individuals, as Samson's affection for Delilah ultimately leads to his destruction, while Delilah's motivations challenge the notion of true love amid betrayal and self-interest. -
400 BCE
Nala & Damayanti by Rukmini Varma
The tale of Nala and Damayanti revolves around their passionate love story, which faces immense challenges when a curse leads to Nala losing his kingdom and his beloved wife, Damayanti, to a demon king. Their journey underscores the theme of love's resilience, demonstrating how true love can withstand trials and tribulations, ultimately bringing them back together and allowing them to reclaim their lives and happiness. -
45
Narcissus and Echo
Narcissus tells the story of a strikingly handsome young man who, forewarned by a prophecy, ultimately falls victim to his own vanity and obsession with his reflection, leading to his tragic demise. This tale illustrates the theme of unrequited love and the perils of self-obsession, as Narcissus's rejection of genuine affection from others, like Echo and Ameinias, highlights the emotional turmoil caused by excessive self-love and the inability to appreciate the love offered by those around him. -
1450
Torrechiara Castle
The story of Torrechiara Castle centers on the love affair between Italian aristocrat Pier Maria Rossi and Bianca Pellegrini, who, despite both being married, sought solace in each other by having a castle built as a secret refuge for their relationship. This tale shows the theme of love by showing how the castle itself became a symbol of their devotion. -
Nov 7, 1468
On the Nature of Love
Ficino expands on Plato’s concepts, presenting love as a transformative force that elevates the soul towards higher ideals beyond mere physical attraction. This exploration fits into the theme of love by illustrating how it fosters personal growth and self-discovery, ultimately guiding individuals toward a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. -
The Tragedie of Macbeth
The Tragedie of Macbeth the story follows Macbeth's rise to power through murder, driven by ambition and the encouragement of Lady Macbeth, leading to their eventual downfall. This narrative fits into the theme of love by illustrating how their initial bond, rooted in shared ambition, deteriorates into guilt and betrayal, ultimately demonstrating that love should be founded on trust and companionship rather than ambition. -
Casablanca
In Casablanca the story unfolds in a war-torn city where Rick Blaine, the owner of a nightclub, navigates his feelings for his former lover, Ilsa Lund, who reenters his life with her husband, Victor Laszlo, a resistance leader. The film powerfully embodies the theme of love by depicting the complexities of their relationships, ultimately illustrating that true love often involves selflessness and sacrifice, as Rick chooses to prioritize Ilsa's happiness and safety over his own desires. -
V-J Day Times Square Kiss
The iconic photograph captures a spontaneous kiss between a sailor and a nurse in Times Square, symbolizing the relief felt by the nation upon the announcement of Japan's surrender, marking the end of World War II. This moment not only represents a romantic connection but also embodies the broader theme of love for peace and unity, illustrating how love triumphs over adversity and serves as a powerful reminder of the collective hope and joy shared. -
Volare by Dean Martin
Dean Martin was a 60’s Italian popstar. In his song, volare means “to fly” in Italian which symbolizes soaring with emotions from being in love. He talks about the euphoria of falling in love comparing it to leaving earth. He talks about how it just feels like him and his lover, feeling happier than ever. -
Lou Marchetti
Lou Marchetti, a talented illustrator renowned for his vibrant covers and movie posters in the 1960s and 1970s, created a poignant piece depicting a couple who, despite their sadness, find solace in each other's embrace. This artwork powerfully conveys the theme of love by highlighting that true affection often lies in the comfort and reassurance partners provide to one another during difficult times, showing that love is supporting each other through life's challenges. -
Silver Surfer by Jack Kirby
The saga of Silver Surfer, as portrayed by Jack Kirby, revolves around Norrin Radd's profound sacrifice to save his planet by becoming Galactus's herald, a choice that ultimately forces him to live apart from his home forever. This narrative not only highlights the theme of love through Norrin's selfless act for his lover and his world but also emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, as his solitary journey through space serves as a metaphor for personal growth and the quest for self-love. -
Couldn't love you more by John Martyn
Couldn't Love You More reflects a deep sense of longing and commitment, expressing the singer's unwavering affection for a lost love through its heartfelt lyrics and repetitive refrain. This poignant portrayal of love emphasizes the theme of limitless devotion, capturing the essence of how profound love can linger even in absence, resonating with listeners who share similar experiences of yearning and the beauty of unconditional love.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ra_uv0uIY-g -
Easy by The Commodores
The song Easy tells the story of a man who feels liberated after ending a controlling relationship that pressured him to change, finding solace in the familiar ease of life. This narrative aligns with the theme of love by emphasizing that true affection should nurture self-acceptance and individuality, illustrating that the most beautiful form of love is one that allows for personal authenticity and freedom. -
Stay with me till dawn by Judie Tzuke
Stay With Me Till Dawn beautifully encapsulates the yearning for intimacy and the deep connection that comes with love, conveying a powerful desire for companionship as the singer seeks solace in the presence of a loved one. This song resonates with the theme of love by highlighting the vulnerability inherent in relationships, emphasizing that true affection is often marked by a profound longing to be close to someone who understands and cherishes you.