Valentine's Day quiz questions for romantics and cynics alike

Valentine's Day divides opinion, but everyone can enjoy a quiz. Whether you're hosting a couples night or just want to add a love-themed round to your regular quiz, these three questions cover the history and quirks of the most romantic day on the calendar.

The questions

Q1: In which century did sending Valentine's cards become popular in Britain: the 15th, 17th or 19th century?

Ans: 19th century

While handwritten love notes existed earlier, the mass production of Valentine's cards took off in the 1840s. The introduction of the Penny Post in 1840 made sending cards affordable, and by 1871 over 1.5 million Valentine's cards were being sent annually in Britain.

Q2: Cupid is the Roman god of love, often depicted as a cherub with a bow and arrow. What is the name of his Greek equivalent?

Ans: Eros

In Greek mythology, Eros was originally depicted as a handsome young man rather than a chubby baby. The Romans adopted him as Cupid (from the Latin "cupido" meaning desire).

Q3: Which Shakespeare play, set in Verona, features a famous balcony scene and has become synonymous with tragic young love?

Ans: Romeo and Juliet

The "Juliet's balcony" in Verona is now a tourist attraction, though the building has no actual connection to Shakespeare's fictional characters. Visitors leave love letters on the walls.

Q4: In which country did the tradition of giving red roses on Valentine's Day originate?

Ans: England

The red rose became associated with romantic love in England during the 18th century, influenced by the language of flowers popular in the Victorian era. Red roses symbolised deep love and passion, and the tradition spread worldwide through British colonial influence.

Q5: What date is "Singles' Day" celebrated, mostly in Asia?

Ans: November 11 (also accept 11/11 or 11th November)

Singles' Day originated in China in the 1990s as an anti-Valentine's Day celebration for single people. The date 11/11 was chosen because the number 1 resembles a single person. It has since become the world's largest online shopping day, with Alibaba recording billions in sales.

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These questions pair well with a music round of love songs or a picture round of famous romantic film couples.