Courtship

Courtship is a period in a couple's relationship which precedes their engagement and marriage, or establishment of an agreed relationship of a more enduring kind. During courtship, a couple get to know each other and decide if there will be an engagement or other such agreement. A courtship may be an informal and private matter between two people or may be a public affair, or a formal arrangement with family approval.

Traditional courtship[edit | edit source]

In some societies, the parents or community propose potential partners and then allow limited dating to determine whether the parties are suited. In Japan, there is a such type of courtship called Omiai, with similar practices called "Xiangqin" (相親) in the Greater China Area. Parents will hire a matchmaker to provide pictures and résumés of potential mates, and if the couple agrees, there will be a formal meeting with the matchmaker and often parents in attendance.

Modern courtship[edit | edit source]

Modern courtship varies greatly in different cultures, with some continuing to practice arranged marriages, while others insist on individual freedom to select a partner. In the United States, courtship has been largely replaced by dating, which is more casual and usually involves multiple people competing for the same person.

Courtship in animals[edit | edit source]

Courtship in animals is often characterized by the male showing off his physical prowess or beauty, in order to attract a female. This can be seen in the animal kingdom, such as the peacock flaring its feathers, or the bower bird building an elaborate nest.

References[edit | edit source]

Courtship Resources
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