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Love is one of the persistent and popular subject matters in the arts, yet what is love and what are different types of love? Begin with two classical loves:

Eros and Agape, consider and discuss some of the concepts of love and related questions highlighted below.

Eros was dominant in both Greek and Roman societies. What are the characteristics of Eros?
What are some prominent examples of artwork portraying Eros?

Agape was embraced by Plato and Christianity. What are the characteristics of Agape? What are some prominent examples of artwork portraying Platonic love?

What are the criticisms of Eros and Agape/Platonic love in contemporary society?

The concept of love can be analyzed in other contexts such as friendship, family and marriage. How has the concept of love in these contexts evolved over time! What are some prominent examples of Artwork depicting these types of love in different time periods?

User Drumsta
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Eros was the Greek god of love and erotic desire, and the concept of Eros in Greek society was associated with passionate love and sexual desire. The characteristics of Eros include physical attraction, desire, and lust. Some prominent examples of artwork portraying Eros include the Greek sculpture "Eros Sleeping" and the Roman statue of "Cupid and Psyche."

Agape, on the other hand, is a type of love that is selfless, unconditional, and altruistic. It is a love that is not based on physical attraction or desire, but rather on a deep sense of care and concern for others. The characteristics of Agape include kindness, compassion, and empathy. Some prominent examples of artwork portraying Platonic love include Raphael's painting "The School of Athens" and Plato's "Symposium."

In contemporary society, there are criticisms of both Eros and Agape/Platonic love. Some people argue that Eros is too focused on physical attraction and desire, and that it can lead to objectification and exploitation of others. Others argue that Agape/Platonic love is unrealistic and impractical, and that it does not take into account the complexities of human relationships.

The concept of love in other contexts such as friendship, family, and marriage has evolved over time. In ancient times, for example, friendship was considered to be a type of love that was based on mutual respect and admiration. In the Middle Ages, the concept of romantic love emerged, and it became associated with courtly love and chivalry. Some prominent examples of artwork depicting these types of love in different time periods include the ancient Greek sculpture "The Three Graces," and the medieval tapestry "The Lady and the Unicorn."

Overall, the concept of love has been a persistent and popular subject matter in the arts, and it continues to be an important theme in contemporary art and culture.
User Aleksandar Popovic
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