Final answer:
In ancient poetry by Sappho, the theme of love's uncontrollable power is depicted, suggesting that an individual might experience love despite their desires. Ovid's texts about Iphis and Ianthe delve into love that defies gender norms of the time, with Iphis undergoing a transformation for love. Altogether, these works illustrate the complex and sometimes irrational nature of love in the context of societal constructs.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the poems and passages presented, the concept of unrequited or unconventional love is a central theme. In ancient texts such as those by Sappho and Ovid, we find explorations of love that defies the norms of the time, such as same-sex love or obsessive love. In Sappho's poetry, for example, the idea that "the one Sappho loves will love her even if she doesn't want to" can be interpreted as a depiction of unconditional love or possibly an understanding that love is not within one's complete control. Similarly, in Ovid's writings about Iphis and Ianthe, we see a portrayal of love that crosses the boundaries of gender.
In Catullus Poem 75, the poet elucidates an intense and conflicting emotional state, where love persists despite the lack of desire for the loved one's wellbeing. This complexity highlights the inescapable and sometimes irrational nature of love. In the story of Iphis, a character experiences a transformation that allows a once impossible love to become socially acceptable, revealing ancient perspectives on gender norms.
These texts collectively underscore the timeless and universal theme of love's complexities, and how it can lead individuals to feel things beyond their logical preferences or societal rules, such as love persisting in the face of self-destruction or social taboos.