Great historical love stories typically have a sense of grandeur. The love of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal was on a grand scale, with the creation of the magnificent Taj Mahal. There is also often a struggle involved. In the story of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, they had to struggle against political forces. Moreover, these love stories are often intertwined with the larger historical context, whether it's the feudal society in the case of Romeo and Juliet or the Roman - Egyptian relations in the case of Cleopatra and Mark Antony.
Often, historical love stories involve strong emotions. For example, Romeo and Juliet's love was intense and all - consuming. They were willing to die for each other. Another characteristic is that they are often influenced by the social and cultural context of the time. In the case of Abelard and Heloise, the strict religious and social norms of the Middle Ages made their relationship difficult. Also, many historical love stories are intertwined with political events. Like Cleopatra and Mark Antony, their relationship had a significant impact on the political relationship between Egypt and Rome.
One characteristic is the authenticity of emotions. Just like in any love story, the feelings of love, longing, and passion need to be real. For example, in 'Call Me By Your Name', the way Elio's love for Oliver is depicted, with all its insecurities and intensities.
Great short love stories often have a strong emotional core. They can quickly make readers feel the love, longing, or heartbreak of the characters. For example, in 'The Gift of the Magi', the selfless love of Jim and Della is immediately palpable.
Many great love stories in history are intertwined with power and politics. Take Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Their relationship was not just about love but also about the power struggle between Egypt and Rome. Their love story was shaped by the political events of their time.
A great love story series usually has an engaging plot. Take 'Outlander' for instance. The time - travel element adds a lot of mystery and adventure to the love story. It makes the relationship between the two main characters more interesting as they face different challenges in different time periods.
Love stories historical fiction typically has a strong sense of place. The locations are vividly described and are an integral part of the story. For instance, in 'Romeo and Juliet', the city of Verona is as much a character as the lovers themselves. The relationships in these stories are also influenced by the power structures of the time. In many historical love stories, family and societal expectations can be major obstacles to the lovers' union. And the exploration of different values of love through different historical periods makes these stories so interesting.
Hindi historical love stories are also deeply rooted in the cultural and social context of the time. They reflect the values, traditions and social hierarchies of that era. For instance, the way a marriage was arranged or the role of family in a relationship was very different from today, and these aspects are vividly depicted in these love stories.
Most Chinese historical love stories often involve strong family or social constraints. For example, in 'The Butterfly Lovers', the feudal system's concept of class difference was a huge obstacle for the lovers. They couldn't freely choose their marriage partners.
Many Korean historical love stories are intertwined with religious and superstitious beliefs. For example, in the story of Shim Cheong, her journey to the underwater kingdom and her miraculous survival are elements related to Korean folk beliefs. Also, loyalty is a big part of these stories. The lovers usually remain faithful to each other no matter how difficult the situation is, like Ki Seungnyang in 'Empress Ki' who stays true to her love for Wang Yu even in the complex Yuan court.
English historical love stories usually have strong emotions at their core. Whether it's the passionate love of Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Robert Browning (although they are more in the realm of literary figures, their story is part of English cultural history), or the more restrained but still deep love in some aristocratic marriages. The sense of propriety and the social norms of the time also shape these stories. For instance, a lady in the Victorian era had to adhere to certain standards while in love, which added a layer of complexity to the love stories. And many of these stories are passed down through literature, which gives them a certain romantic and often idealized quality.