It all started with Friederick III’s son Maximilian, who started an unusual ‘matrimonial policy’. First, he married Mary of Burgundy. Their son Phillip married Joanna of Castille, and their daughter Margaret married John, Prince of Asturias. The result? A number of countries and shares of their colonies (Latin America) became a part of the Habsburgs. And it didn’t stop here! It continued for generations.

Later in the 18th century, Maria Theresa, also a descendent of the Habsburgs, married Francis Stephen. He was the Duke of Lorraine and later Holy Roman Emperor. Their youngest (well-known) daughter, Marie Antoinette was the queen of King Louis XVI (If you don’t have bread, eat cake. Remember?). Quite a story!Now it’s time for the Romans to do the talking.

First up, the Roman poet, Horace brings us 2 quotes of his – Both simple yet effective.

One of the most well-known phrases. Horace, highlighting the importance of being wise, used it way back in 20 B.C. in his First Book of Letters. However, it came to light later as well. Immanuel Kant used it as a motto for the Age of Enlightenment period – “Dare to use your own understanding”. Kant has been active in various fields related to philosophy. There’s almost nothing he can’t (an extremely overused pun but I can’t help it!

As for the people who speak them, the cultures are known to place importance on being friendly, sociable and intimate. E.g. greeting each other with kisses. So one can imagine how much it’s important for them to be out. Covid-19 has certainly affected all that. A sad reality. But kudos to the people for the courage they’re showing. They have their own way of life too, which is reflected in their phrases and concept.

Exactly a year has passed since I started writing. 10th of April was the day. Fast forward a year – some things have changed, but I am back to square one. My first blog was out last year – “What if the Romance languages were people?” 

So what are these “Romance languages”? Why are they relevant to us? Considering that my readers are from different backgrounds, I’ll try to explain in short. As always, have fun! So the Romance languages are a language family. The major ones include Latin, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese. Very well known, aren’t they.

First of all the name – Romance languages. Basically they trace their origins to Rome, thereby Roman Empire.