Final answer:
A wedding is a ceremony where two individuals are united in marriage, which is a legally recognized union traditionally based on a sexual relationship. Variations exist in cultural and historical contexts, as illustrated in literary and mythical references.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Webster's Dictionary as interpreted by the context from Homer and other literary references, a wedding is typically understood as a ceremony in which two people are united in marriage. A wedding is not just a social event but a legally recognized social contract, traditionally founded on a sexual relationship, suggesting permanence and a foundational element of societal structure. Cultural practices can influence the interpretation of a wedding, as seen in the context of the Apotheosis of Homer, where marriage and related rites are depicted differently across historical and mythical examples. For instance, in the excerpt where Ianthe will become someone's spouse without traditional gender roles, it highlights variations in the concept of marriage and weddings.
Furthermore, marriage, as noted by the character Old Grannis in literature, is seen as a noble institution and the foundation of society. The LibreTexts examples also discuss instances of marriage in historical and mythological contexts, further enriching our understanding of the concept across different cultures and eras.