
Valentine's Day Short Story
Since tomorrow is the first day of February, here's a little story about Valentine's Day.
In Japan, Valentine's Day is known as the day when women give chocolates to men, but its origins actually date back to Roman times. In this article, we will introduce the history of Valentine's Day and the unique ways in which it is celebrated around the world.
■ The origin of Valentine's Day
The name Valentine's Day comes from a real Saint Valentine who lived in Rome in the 3rd century. The Roman Emperor Claudius II at the time banned soldiers from getting married, as it would lower morale. However, Saint Valentine disobeyed this order and secretly performed marriages for young soldiers. Eventually, the emperor found out about his actions and executed Saint Valentine. The day fell on February 14th, and he was later commemorated as the "patron saint of love" in honor of his courageous actions.
■ The spread of Valentine's Day
In medieval Europe, February 14th was established as "lovers' day," and the custom of sending poems and letters was born. In particular, the works of the 14th century poet Geoffrey Chaucer established Valentine's Day as a day for lovers to pledge their love. Later, in the 19th century, the culture of exchanging "Valentine's cards" spread in England and America, and eventually developed into the custom of giving chocolates and flowers.
■ Japan's unique Valentine's Day culture
Valentine's Day became popular in Japan in the 1950s, when Western confectionery companies advertised it as "the day for women to give chocolate to men." As a result, a unique chocolate culture developed in Japan, including "giri choco," "honmei choco," and "tomo choco." In recent years, "gyaku choco," where men give chocolate to women, and "jibun choco," or buying chocolate as a reward for oneself, have also become common.
■ Valentine's Day culture outside of Japan
Valentine's Day is celebrated differently in different countries.
America and Britain: Couples give each other cards, flowers, and chocolates. Many couples even propose marriage.
France: Known as the "country of love," France is known for having lovers exchange letters and luxury chocolates.
South Korea: Women give men chocolate on February 14th, and men give candy in return on "White Day" on March 14th. There is also a custom of single people getting together and eating Korean-style jajangmyeon on "Black Day" on April 14th.
Finland and Estonia: It is "Friends' Day" and people give gifts not only to romantic partners but also to friends and family.
■ Summary <br>Valentine's Day began with the legend of a saint in Ancient Rome, passed through Medieval Europe, and is now celebrated in various forms around the world in modern times. In Japan in particular, it has developed into a unique culture, and the custom of many people giving chocolates on February 14th every year is deeply rooted. This Valentine's Day, why not take a look back at its history and express your feelings to someone special?
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