Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.  When you think of Valentine’s Day, many things come to mind: hearts, candy, love, cards, flowers…..and Cupid.  Have you ever wondered where the idea of Cupid came from?

According to Roman mythology, Cupid was the son of Venus (Also referred to as Aphrodite), the goddess of love and beauty. Cupid was known for his ability to cause people to fall in love by shooting them with his magical arrows.

As legend has it, Cupid didn’t just cause others to fall in love – he himself fell deeply in love with a mortal maiden named Psyche. Psyche was one of three daughters of a king and although all three were beautiful, she was by far the most beautiful of the three.  She was so beautiful that people began to neglect the worship of Venus.  Cupid married Psyche, but Venus, jealous of Psyche’s beauty, forbade her daughter-in-law to look at Cupid. Psyche, who was persuaded by her jealous sisters, couldn’t resist temptation and snuck a peek at her handsome husband. As punishment, Venus demanded that she perform three hard tasks, the last of which caused Psyche’s death.

Cupid brought Psyche back to life.  The Gods were so moved by their love, they granted Pysche immortality. Cupid thus represents the heart and Psyche the (struggles of the) human soul.

We hope you have a Happy Valentine’s Day!

Sources: Ancienthistory.about.com; history.com;