Final answer:
Ancient texts, like those by Catullus and inscriptions referenced by Robert Knapp, point to the enduring notion that love can render the beloved as perfect in the eyes of the lover, a theme also evident in historical and societal accounts from ancient Rome.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept that a person in love will think their loved one is perfect dates back to ancient times, as seen in various texts from around 35 BC. For instance, love poems by Catullus depict the intense and conflicting emotions of love, revealing the idea that one might be so in love that they cannot acknowledge their loved one's flaws, no matter what they do. This concept is not only found in poetry but also reflected in funeral inscriptions, such as those cited by Robert Knapp, and in the actions of historical figures like Sulla, who showed his deep affection for his wife Metella by arranging an elaborate funeral that defied his own laws, despite having divorced her to comply with religious requirements. The Roman approach to love also intersected with elements of societal norms and expectations, as highlighted in texts by Ovid, who advised on the delicate balance of appearance and attraction, and the works of Cicero, which comment on the personal and often scandalous relationships within Roman society.