A dating expert offers insights from the Netflix hit series Bridgerton, showing how its themes resonate with contemporary views on love and relationships.
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Do Daphne and Simon in Bridgerton experience the kind of romance that is a thing of the past?
Comparing love across different eras: Was it simpler then or now? And are the dramatic elements of gossip, lies, and scandal more captivating in fiction than reality?
Bridgerton, with its appealing charm, diverse and attractive characters, and scandalous plotlines, has garnered a massive fanbase. It prompts us to reflect on how similar our modern love experiences are to those in Regency-era London, minus the extravagant lifestyles and costumes. Louanne Ward, a renowned Australian matchmaker and dating expert, highlights seven contemporary love lessons from the series.
Love remains constant over time, but courtship methods have evolved. The essence of love doesn’t change through ages – physical affection, sweet compliments, and the desire to be together are timeless. However, our approach to finding love has shifted dramatically. Today’s dating involves app-based interactions, replacing formal courting rituals with digital communications, often juggling multiple prospects simultaneously. This has led to a culture where playing hard to get is a flirting strategy, and attention is a sought-after commodity.
However, we face unique challenges today. Unlike Daphne, who was a virgin before marriage, modern relationships often don’t follow the same tradition. And while men’s sexual freedom was more accepted in the past, today’s society still sometimes judges women more harshly for similar behaviors.
Bridgerton illustrates how love’s fundamental nature is universal, yet its expression and societal norms have significantly diverged from our ancestors’.
Maintaining appearances is still a human trait. Just as love is timeless, so does our tendency to be curious about others’ lives and maintain our image. From the secrets of Bridgerton and Featherington families to checking out an ex’s social media, our fascination with others’ lives hasn’t changed. Instead of hiding behind fashion and jewelry, we now curate our best selves on social media, concealing our struggles. Modern media gives us instant access to others’ lives, feeding our appetite for scandal and drama.
In dating, this translates to impressive gestures and displays of status, now replaced by polished dating profiles and social media presence. In both eras, presenting our best selves to potential partners is natural, though the definition of ‘best’ has evolved.
Vulnerability is a strength.
The renowned honeymoon scene in Bridgerton, where Daphne and Simon struggle with communication despite their love, teaches the importance of vulnerability. Once they open up, their relationship deepens, highlighting how letting down guards can enhance connection and understanding. This lesson transcends time, emphasizing the power of honest communication in any era.
Honesty is fundamental in building love.
The timeless wisdom that honesty trumps deceit is epitomized in Bridgerton. Marina Thompson’s storyline of lies and manipulation, driven by desperation, demonstrates how dishonesty can ruin relationships. In modern dating, even small lies on a profile can erode trust, showing that honesty is crucial from the start.
Addressing past issues is crucial.
Unresolved issues, whether minor annoyances or deeper grievances, can undermine relationships. Simon’s unresolved issues with his father in Bridgerton nearly cost him his marriage, illustrating the importance of confronting and resolving past conflicts for personal well-being and relationship health.
Love transcends superficial qualities.
Bridgerton shows true love looks beyond surface-level attractions like social status or physical appearance. Daphne’s choice of Simon over Prince Friederich underscores the importance of emotional connection and shared values in forming lasting relationships, a lesson relevant in today’s quick judgments based on social media profiles.
Love is a conscious choice.
Bridgerton reinforces the idea that love involves active decision-making. Lady Violet’s advice to Daphne highlights the importance of loving and committing daily despite challenges. This principle remains true across centuries, emphasizing the role of effort and commitment in sustaining relationships.
Bridgerton, with its mix of historical romance and contemporary relevance, has captivated a wide audience. It reminds us that while love’s essence remains unchanged, its expression evolves with societal and technological advancements. The show encourages us to embrace the challenges and joys of love, regardless of the era.
As we ponder the future of love, we’re left to wonder how it will continue to evolve in the coming decades and centuries.
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