The Invention of Romance: The Mystique of Love and its Origins in Christian Platonism

Love, a universal human experience, has captivated hearts and minds for centuries. But what is the true nature of romantic love? Where did it come from? And how has it shaped our understanding of the human condition?

The Invention of Romance

by Frithjof Schuon

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	911 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages
Paperback	:	96 pages
Item Weight	:	3.52 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.4 x 0.2 x 8.4 inches

FREE

In his groundbreaking book, "The Invention of Romance: The Mystique of Love and its Origins in Christian Platonism," renowned scholar and author Frithjof Schuon explores the fascinating history of romantic love, tracing its roots back to the profound influence of Christian Platonism.

The Roots of Romantic Love in Christian Platonism

Schuon argues that the concept of romantic love, as we know it today, was largely invented in the Middle Ages, during the height of Christian Platonism. This philosophical movement, inspired by the writings of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, emphasized the importance of the spiritual realm over the material world.

According to Christian Platonists, true love was not based on physical attraction or worldly desires, but on a transcendent connection between souls. This idea of love as a spiritual union had a profound impact on the way people thought about relationships and the purpose of human existence.

The Concept of Courtly Love

The influence of Christian Platonism on romantic love is most evident in the development of courtly love, a literary tradition that flourished in the 12th and 13th centuries. Courtly love was characterized by its emphasis on:

• Adoration: The knight, or lover, idealized the lady of his affections, seeing her as a paragon of virtue and beauty.
• Service: The knight dedicated himself to serving the lady, performing acts of chivalry and devotion.
• Separation: Physical intimacy was often not a part of courtly love, which instead focused on the emotional and spiritual connection between the lovers.

Famous Stories of Courtly Love

Two of the most famous stories of courtly love are the legends of Tristan and Isolde and Lancelot and Guinevere. These tales depict the intense passion and devotion that characterized these relationships, even in the face of obstacles and societal disapproval.

In "Tristan and Isolde," the tragic romance between the two lovers is doomed by a love potion, which forces them to love each other eternally. Despite their attempts to resist their passion, they are ultimately unable to escape their fate, leading to their tragic deaths.

In "Lancelot and Guinevere," the forbidden love between the knight Lancelot and Queen Guinevere threatens to destroy the kingdom of Camelot. Lancelot's unwavering devotion to Guinevere leads to betrayal and a bitter war, ultimately resulting in the downfall of the legendary kingdom.

The Legacy of Romantic Love

The concept of courtly love, with its emphasis on spiritual and emotional connection, had a profound impact on Western culture. It influenced the development of modern literature, art, and music, and it continues to shape our understanding of love and romance to this day.

From the works of Shakespeare to the romantic comedies of our time, the legacy of romantic love is evident in our cultural consciousness. We continue to be captivated by stories of passion, sacrifice, and the search for the ideal partner.

In "The Invention of Romance," Frithjof Schuon provides a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of the origins of romantic love. By tracing its roots back to Christian Platonism and the concept of courtly love, Schuon sheds light on the complex and enduring human experience of love.

Whether you are a scholar of literature, a lover of romance, or simply curious about the nature of human connection, "The Invention of Romance" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and enduring legacy of love.

"Love is the only thing that can give life a meaning. It is the only thing that can make us feel truly alive. It is the only thing that can make us feel connected to something greater than ourselves." - Frithjof Schuon

The Invention of Romance

by Frithjof Schuon

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	911 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages
Paperback	:	96 pages
Item Weight	:	3.52 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.4 x 0.2 x 8.4 inches

FREE