≡For much of Antiquity and the Middle Ages
For much of Antiquity and the Middle Ages, romantic love was not the main reason for marriage. Civilizations such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans treated marriage as a strategic decision: to secure family alliances, protect property, and maintain social stability. In medieval Europe, especially among nobles and royalty, marrying for love was rare; marriages were arranged by families, and affection was often just a bonus.
It was only from the 18th century onwards, with cultural changes and the rise of literary romances, that romantic love began influencing the choice of partner. Before that, marriage was more of a social contract than an act of passion.
Interestingly, even when love did not dictate marriage, it already existed: the oldest recorded love letter dates back to around 2000 B.C. in Mesopotamia. Written on a clay tablet, it contains passionate verses dedicated to a woman, showing that human feelings have always been present, even in societies governed by strict rules.
These facts reveal that although marriage was structured and strategic, love was always there, quietly expressed through words and gestures.
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