Wednesday, February 11, 2009

she

The first mention of St. Valentine's Day is in Chaucer's Parliament of Foules (though it is up for debate which Valentine) in the 14th century in honor of King Richard II of England and Anne of Bohemia, a poem for the love birds who wed at a very very young 15 years. Richard and Anne were true lovers who were evidently devoted to one another and deeply in love though it was an arranged match. In fact, neither took other lovers, no recorded illegitimate children, and Richard is noted in referring to Anne as his beloved. on her death he refused to walk into any room that reminded him of her and was described as being wild with grief. Also, Anne did not come with money. In fact, Richard paid Anne's brother Wencelslas for Anne's hand.

Anne was known for helping Richard with his temper, for pleading on behalf of Londoners and others endearing herself to the king, and though she remained childless throughout their 12 year marriage, he remained faithful.

And that is a couple to commemorate.

For this was on seynt Volantynys day
Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make.

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