Love, they say, makes the world go round.

Let’s take a look at the different types of love, as the ancient Greeks classified them, to better understand our relationships.

1. Agape [Unconditional Love]

This is selfless, unconditional love. Some people would describe it as a type of spiritual love like what Christians believe Jesus did by sacrificing himself for humanity

2. Philia [Affectionate Love]

This is the kind of love that you feel for your friends. It is also referred to as “platonic” love – love without sex.

3. Eros [Romantic Love]

Eros is named after the Greek god of love and fertility. This love is romantic, passionate, and physical – sexual love. Some people believe this kind of love is fierce. It burns hot and bright but burns out fast.

4. Storge [Familiar Love]

Storge is more like a parent-child love. It is not about physicality or sexual attraction. It’s about that family bond and kinship.

5. Ludus [Playful Love]

This can be likened to infatuation. It’s the butterflies in your stomach when you are around your love and cannot imagine life without them. This is usually seen in the early moments of romance. It makes one feel excited about life.

6. Philautia [Self-love]

Philautia is self-love. You can also call it self-compassion. Just as you show love to others, you should show that same love to yourself. If we don’t love ourselves, how can we truly love others? This, however, is different from being narcissistic.

7. Pragma [Enduring Love]

The ancient Greeks define pragma as “enduring love.” This love has matured over a long period. It is the kind you see with old couples. Both are good at making compromises and putting equal efforts into the progress of their union.

8. Mania [Obsessive Love]

This type of love can lead one into madness, jealousy, or anger. It happens when people fear losing their love, and this makes them do crazy things just to keep them. Mania is not a good type of love and can be dangerous.

Now you know the ancient Greek types of love. What are your thoughts?

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