Valentine’s Day is a bright light in the middle of the winter. Come Feb. 14, sweethearts celebrate their love and affection for one another on this day devoted to happy couples.

The origin of Valentine’s Day has generated much speculation over the years. Most early accounts do not point to heart-shaped boxes filled with chocolates. Rather, a few distinctive tales may paint the picture of early Valentine’s Day, and they have nothing to do with stuffed animals or romantic dinners.

Roman festival

One of the earliest records of the term Valentine’s Day is traced to the Roman festival o...