Despite men often dominating historical narratives, there are many romantic figures who deserve their moment in the spotlight. This list focuses on men known for their immense capacity for love, making them ideal subjects for a miniseries.
Five Romantic Men From History Who Deserve a Miniseries
1. E.M. Forster
E.M. Forster, author of classic romantic novels like “A Room with a View” and “Howard’s End,” had a passionate, albeit secret, affair in his 50s with another man named Bob Buckingham. Due to the times, Forster had to keep his love hidden, but their relationship brought him true happiness. Uniquely, he maintained a close bond with both Bob and his wife, May, until his death, mirroring the intricate relationships found in his novels.
2. Shah Jahan
Shah Jahan’s love for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, was immortalized with the construction of the Taj Mahal. Their love story, marked by mutual respect and devotion, took a tragic turn with Mumtaz’s death. Devastated, Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal to honor her memory, creating a lasting symbol of his enduring love.
3. Richard Wagner
Renowned for his epic musical compositions like “Flight of the Valkyries,” Richard Wagner’s deep love for Cosima is less well-known. Their relationship, initially an open secret due to Wagner’s first marriage, culminated in a grand wedding complete with a full orchestra. While Beethoven and Mozart have had films about their lives, Wagner’s romantic saga deserves similar cinematic attention.
4. Peter Abelard
The romance between Peter Abelard and his student, Heloise, was both forbidden and tragic. Drawn together by a mutual passion for knowledge, they secretly married and had a child. Their love story faced severe repercussions, leading to their separation and punishment. Yet, their enduring love is evidenced by surviving love letters that recount their deep connection.
5. Frederick Douglass
Frederick Douglass’s love for Anna Douglass remained steadfast through the trials of slavery and adversity. Anna not only helped him escape slavery but also supported his abolitionist cause. Despite the challenges that occasionally strained their relationship, their enduring love makes their story a compelling candidate for a romantic miniseries.
We’d love to hear about other romantic figures from history who you think deserve their own miniseries!
