Rose Day, observed on February 7th, symbolises the beginning of Valentine’s Week, leading up to Valentine’s Day on February 14th. While the original origins of Rose Day as part of Valentine’s Week remain unknown, roses have long been connected with love and passion throughout history.
Roses have been used as love symbols for thousands of years, with parallels in ancient mythology, literature, and cultural traditions. Here’s a quick look at how roses were regarded as the “flower of love”:
- Ancient Mythology:
- In Greek and Roman mythology, roses were often associated with love and beauty. According to one legend, the rose was created by the goddess of love, Aphrodite (Venus in Roman mythology), and was said to symbolize her love and beauty.
- Literature and Poetry:
- Roses have been celebrated in literature and poetry for centuries as symbols of love, passion, and romance. Writers and poets throughout history, including Shakespeare, Keats, and Byron, have used roses as metaphors for love and desire in their works.
- Cultural Traditions:
- In many cultures around the world, giving roses as tokens of affection is a common practice, especially on special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day. The act of giving roses is seen as a gesture of love, admiration, and appreciation.
- Victorian Era:
- During the Victorian era in the 19th century, flowers, including roses, were used to convey messages in a practice known as “floriography,” or “the language of flowers.” Different colours and varieties of roses were assigned specific meanings, with red roses symbolising passionate love and romance.
- Commercialization of Valentine’s Day:
- In the modern era, Valentine’s Day has become heavily commercialised, with roses being one of the most popular gifts exchanged between romantic partners. Red roses, in particular, are closely associated with Valentine’s Day and are often given as expressions of love and affection.
For centuries, individuals have associated roses with love. Roses, whether given as a single stem or a bouquet, are cherished symbols of love and romance around the world, making Rose Day an appropriate start to Valentine’s Week celebrations.
