Over time, the
custom of kissing developed as a way for adults to  express their love and affection for one
another. The roots of this form of affection can be traced
back to primitive times, when mothers fondled their
children, much as mothers do today.
Much later, in the sixth century, society apparently
accepted the custom of kissing between adults as an expression
of their affection. Not surprisingly, France first accepted
kissing in courtship,and in amore. There, figure
dancing was the rage, and each dance was sealed with a
kiss.
The custom of kissing swept from France through Europe to
Russia, where Russian nobility loved to ape the French.
Eventually, the kiss was incorporated into marriage
ceremonies, and today lip-locks couples into sweet
matrimony.
The custom of kissing today, as well as in ancient times,
serves to show respect, and to pay homage to another.
For example, early Romans kissed each other on the mouth or on
the eyes to greet one another in a manner they deemed to be a
dignified. One Roman emperor even ranked a person's importance
by the body part he was allowed to kiss. He allowed important
nobles to kiss his lips, less important ones to kiss his
hands, and the least important ones to kiss his feet.
In Russia, the highest sign of recognition from the Crown
meant a kiss from the Tsar himself. Today, natives of
many African tribes pay homage to their Chief by kissing the
ground over which he has walked. |
fondled: 愛(ài)撫
courtship: 求愛(ài)
homage: 敬意
Tsar: 沙皇
|
