Classical Romance Love Plot

A handsome youth and a beautiful girl meet by chance and fall in love, but unexpected obstacles obstruct their union; they are separated, and each is launched on a series of journeys and dangerous adventures; through all their tribulations, however, they remain faithful to each other and to the benevolent deities who at critical junctures guide their steps; and eventually they are reunited and live happily ever after.

-Bryan P. Reardon: The Form of Greek Romance; Quoted in Barbara Fuchs: Romance.