Why does Valentine symbolize romantic love? When does it start symbolize that?
It all begins from the Legend Aurea of Jacobus. The very brief vita of St Valentine has him refusing to deny Christ. Before his head was cut off, this Valentine restored sight and hearing to the daughter of his jailer. Jacobus makes a play with the etymology of “Valentine”, “as containing valor”. Then, it was discovered about hearts and last notes signed “from your Valentine”, as is sometimes suggested in modern works of sentimental piety. Legend of Valentine appears in the late ages in England and France, when the day of 14 February became associated with romantic love. 14 February becomes Valentine’s Day.
