Yes, according to mythology, Cupid absolutely can fall in love.
While often depicted as a mischievous matchmaker, Cupid, also known as Eros in Greek mythology, is not immune to the pangs of love himself. His most famous love story involves Psyche.
Cupid and Psyche
The tale of Cupid and Psyche illustrates his capacity for love. Venus, Cupid's mother, tasked him with punishing Psyche, a mortal woman whose beauty rivaled her own. However, Cupid was struck by Psyche's beauty and instead fell deeply in love with her. This love story is central to understanding that Cupid isn't just an agent of love; he's capable of experiencing it profoundly. He eventually marries Psyche, and she becomes immortal. This demonstrates that Cupid's love isn't just a fleeting infatuation but a deep, transformative force.
Cupid's Role and Motivations
Cupid's actions are often driven by his mother, Venus, who uses him to manipulate the love lives of both gods and mortals. However, the story of Cupid and Psyche shows that he has the capacity to act independently and follow his own heart, even against his mother's wishes. This emphasizes his agency and ability to deviate from his assigned role as simply a deliverer of love. He can also be a recipient of it.
In conclusion, the myth of Cupid and Psyche firmly establishes that Cupid is not only capable of inspiring love in others, but he is also capable of experiencing it himself, often in a profound and life-altering way.
