Pan Versus Cupid: Lust Versus Love

In art, look for Pan, who personifies carnal lust, and Cupid, the god of love, fighting it out. Come on, you know your own struggle of earthly “thirst” versus divine love! At the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina in Sicily you’ll find many age-old stories, such as this one, depicted on its remarkable 3rd and 4th century AD mosaic tile floors. Note the palm branch between them. This represents victory. Who will win? Does love conquer lust?

As we approach Valentine’s Day (during Carnevale, no less!), I want to know what you think! Express your vote in the comments.