In Henry James's novel "The Europeans," the theme of love is explored through the complexities of relationships and societal expectations. The characters navigate emotions and desires, often finding themselves in conflicts between personal yearnings and the pressures imposed by their social environment. This struggle highlights the discrepancies between idealized notions of love and the realities experienced by individuals.

The quote "If this was love, love had been overrated" encapsulates a sense of disillusionment with romantic ideals. It reflects the characters' realizations that the concept of love might not live up to their expectations, suggesting a critical perspective on the way love is often portrayed. James invites readers to reconsider the true nature of love, questioning its significance and the weight we place on it in our lives.