Since the dawn of oral tradition, humans have been captivated by the complexities of the heart. From the tragic yearning of Romeo and Juliet to the modern, rain-soaked reunions of Nicholas Sparks adaptations, remains one of the most enduring pillars of the entertainment industry.

The 19th century saw the rise of melodrama, a genre characterized by exaggerated emotions, morality plays, and often, tragic love stories. Melodramas, such as those written by Eugène Scribe and François Diderot, were incredibly popular, influencing the development of film and television drama.