The History of St Valentine

Self-study activity:
1) What do you know about St Valentine's Day. Discuss with a friend everything you know about this festivity (date, origins, people's typical way of celebrating).
2) Watch the video through (without stopping). Some parts might be a bit difficult, but listen through it so that you can get a general idea of the documentary.
3) Watch the video for a second time (or as many times as you wish). Say whether the statements 1-7 below are true or false.



1. St Valentine's Day contains vestiges of the early Christian church in ancient Rome.
2. Pope Gelasius declared February 14th as St Valentine’s Day in the 15th century.
3. Emperor Claudius II banned (prohibited) marriages.
4. Claudius II sentenced Father Valentine to death.
5. Father Valentine was born on 14th February.
6. Americans give 180 millions roses on Valentine's Day.
7. Valentine's Day brings in 40 billions dollars annually.

4) Now you can check your answers while you read the script of the documentary here.
5) Discuss with a friend or record yourself answering these questions: How do you celebrate St Valentine's Day? How do your family or friends celebrate it? What would your ideal Valentine's Day be like? Do you think lovers really need a day to proclaim their love or is it just business?