Pastoral romance is a literary genre that idealizes rural life and nature, often depicting the love stories of shepherds and shepherdesses. It emphasizes simplicity, innocence, and the beauty of the countryside, contrasting the complexities of urban life. This genre often features themes of unrequited love, harmony with nature, and the celebration of rustic virtues. The roots of pastoral romance can be traced back to ancient works, such as those by Theocritus and Virgil. In the Renaissance, it gained popularity through works like Christopher Marlowe's "The Passionate Shepherd to His Love." The genre continues to influence literature and art, celebrating the idyllic aspects of pastoral life.