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

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

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

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.

See also

• Dating
• Engagement
• Marriage
• Mate choice
• Mating (animal behavior)

References

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