written by art historian & curator Mihaela Manolache
Love, universally regarded as one of the most profound and fundamental human emotions, is a force that transcends borders and binds individuals across cultures, religions, and ages. However, beneath the veneer of this universally cherished emotion lies a stark reality: love is not always celebrated and accepted with open arms in all societies. Love remains contentious and, at times, taboo in various corners of the world, challenging social norms, traditions, and deeply ingrained beliefs.
Throughout history, societies have grappled with differing notions of love and the constraints imposed upon it, ranging from arranged marriages stifling personal choice to the stigmatisation of same-sex relationships and interfaith unions. These divergent perspectives reflect the deeply rooted cultural and social values that shape our understanding of love and relationships.
By examining these cultural variations and their consequences, we gain valuable insights into the intricate nuances of human emotions and the relentless tension between love’s universality and its capacity to be taboo in select societies. While love typically represents…
