* The Song of Songs: This biblical text, written in Hebrew, is a collection of passionate love poems, likely composed around the 3rd century BCE. It explores the themes of desire, longing, and physical intimacy, which would be echoed throughout later Western love poetry.
* Sappho: A Greek poet from the 7th century BCE, Sappho is known for her intensely personal and sensual love poems, often addressed to other women. Her work influenced countless poets, including those writing in the Roman tradition.
* The Roman Elegists: Poets like Ovid and Propertius, writing in the 1st century BCE, developed the elegy form, often used to express love, loss, and lament. Their work explored complex emotional states and relationships, leaving a lasting impact on the tradition.
* Courtly Love: This medieval literary tradition, popular in 12th-13th century France, idealized romantic love, often involving unattainable desire and noble chivalry. This concept influenced countless writers and artists, shaping the way love was understood and expressed for centuries.
Ultimately, there is no single "ancestor" for all Western love poetry. Instead, the tradition has been shaped by countless voices and influences throughout history. These examples represent some of the most influential figures and movements that contributed to the rich and diverse history of Western love poetry.