Lecture Notes: The Four Greek Words for Love

Overview

In the Greek language, there are four distinct words to describe different forms of love. Each word specifies a unique type of relationship or affection, reflecting the diversity in human connections.

Types of Love in Greek

1. Storge (στοργή, S-T-O-R-G-E)

   • Definition: Affection
   • Description: Refers to the love that should exist between close family members, a natural and almost instinctual form of love.

2. Philia (φιλία, P-H-I-L-A)

   • Definition: Friendship
   • Description: Denotes a form of love rooted in friendship and shared goodwill, characterized by mutual respect and common interests.

3. Eros (ἔρως, E-R-O-S)

   • Definition: Romantic Love
   • Description: Represents the passionate love between the sexes, often associated with romance and desire.

4. Agape (ἀγάπη, A-G-A-P-E)

   • Definition: Divine Love
   • Description: Embodies the love in the Christian sense, including God’s unconditional love for humanity and the love Christians are encouraged to have for each other.

Focus on Eros

• Theme: The lecture intends to explore Eros, highlighting its complexity and potential dangers.
• Discussion: Eros is seen as a difficult and potentially perilous form of love, suggesting that further examination will be given to its nature and implications.

Conclusion

• The distinct Greek terms for love provide a nuanced understanding of relationships, each with its own virtues and challenges. The lecture aims to delve deeper into Eros due to its particular intricacies.