Discover and Shortlist Your Perfect Baby Names!
Introduction
William Shakespeare is one of the most influential writers of all time. His work has been studied for centuries and is still relevant today. As such, his influence has extended to the world of naming, with many parents choosing to name their children after characters and locations from his plays. This article will explore the history of Shakespearean names, their popularity, and some of the most popular choices.
History of Shakespearean Names
The earliest recorded use of a Shakespearean name was in 1593, when the playwright himself christened his daughter Susanna. Other names, such as Hamnet and Judith, were used by Shakespeare's contemporaries. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that Shakespearean names became popular throughout the English-speaking world. The Victorians were particularly fond of the Bard's work, and as such, many of his characters and locations were given as first names.
Popularity of Shakespearean Names
Shakespearean names remain popular today, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. According to the Social Security Administration, the most popular Shakespearean name in the US is Juliet, followed by Hamlet and Ophelia. In the UK, the most popular Shakespearean name is Olivia, followed by Romeo and Macbeth.
Popular Shakespearean Names
Some of the most popular Shakespearean names include:
Juliet
Romeo
Olivia
Hamlet
Ophelia
Macbeth
Iago
Desdemona
Miranda
Titania
Conclusion
Shakespearean names are a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child. With so many options to choose from, there is sure to be a Shakespearean name to suit every family.
| Name | Meaning | Origins | Gender | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barnadine | Barnadine: Rare Shakespearean name, masculine, three syllables, literary significance. | Shakespearean | Boy | |
| Belvidera | Belvidera: rare, Shakespearean name meaning "beautiful to see," feminine. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Desdemone | Desdemone: unique Shakespearean name meaning "misery," elegant and uncommon choice. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Desdemonna | Desdemonna: unique Shakespearean name, evokes tragedy and literary charm. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Florizel | Florizel: Derived from Latin, meaning "flower," symbolizing beauty and youth. | Arthurian Legend, Shakespearean | Unisex | |
| Florizella | Florizella: unique, elegant name with Shakespearean and floral origins. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Fortinbras | Fortinbras: rare Shakespearean name meaning "strong fortress," signifies strength. | Shakespearean | Boy | |
| Garrick | Garrick means "spear ruler," originating from Old English and Germanic. | Anglo-Saxon, English, Shakespearean | Boy | |
| Hekuba | Hekuba: Greek name meaning "distant," associated with Troy's tragic queen. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Jessican | Jessican: Unique, Shakespearean name variant of Jessica with feminine roots. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Jocosa | Jocosa: unique, Shakespearean name meaning playful; elegant and uncommon choice. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Juleit | Juliet: a romantic, timeless name with Shakespearean literary significance. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Julliet | Julliet: a romantic, Shakespearean name symbolizing love and tragedy. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Kordellya | Kordellya: Unique Greek name meaning "beautiful daughter of the sea." | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Marvell | Marvell means "wonderful" and originates from Middle English "meruaille." | Anglo-Saxon, Elizabethan, English, Shakespearean | Unisex | |
| Marygold | Marygold is a unique feminine name derived from "marigold" flower. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Mirana | Mirana: a unique, Shakespearean name symbolizing beauty, grace, and wonder. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Nerissa | Nerissa: Greek name meaning "sea nymph," popularized by Shakespeare. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Ollyvar | Ollyvar: unique masculine name, modern variation of Oliver, meaning "olive tree." | Latin, Shakespearean | Boy | |
| Orsinio | Orsinio: Unique Shakespearean name meaning "bear king," with Italian roots. | Shakespearean | Boy | |
| Otelo | Otelo: Shakespearean name symbolizing bravery, honor, and uniqueness. | Shakespearean | Boy | |
| Othella | Othella: unique, Shakespearean name symbolizing strength, resilience, and wisdom. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Perditta | Perditta: rare, Shakespearean name meaning "lost," elegant and unique choice. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Porscia | Porscia: Unique Shakespearean name meaning "from ancient Rome," elegant choice. | Shakespearean | Girl | |
| Rickardo | Rickardo: Spanish name meaning "strong ruler," popular in various cultures. | Shakespearean, Spanish | Boy | |
| Shake | Shake means "to move quickly"; originates from Old English "sceacan." | English, Shakespearean, The name Shake has origins in the following: Arabic | Unisex | |
| Stranger | Stranger: One who is unknown; originates from Old French "estranger." | Biblical, English, Medieval Times, Shakespearean | Unisex | |
| Thomasin | Thomasin means "twin," derived from the Aramaic name Thomas. | Anglo-Saxon, Biblical, Elizabethan, English, Medieval Times, Middle English, Shakespearean | Female. |
The term 'Shakespearean' refers to anything related to or characteristic of William Shakespeare or his works. It is often used to describe the language, themes, and dramatic techniques found in his plays and poetry. The term also encompasses the historical period during which Shakespeare wrote, the Elizabethan era.
Shakespearean English differs from modern English primarily due to linguistic evolution over time. Vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation have all changed since the late 16th and early 17th centuries when Shakespeare was writing. Shakespearean English includes archaic words and forms that are no longer in common use today.
Shakespearean is not considered a separate language but a form of Early Modern English. It is the stage of the English language used during Shakespeare's time and is characterized by its own set of linguistic features. While it can be challenging for modern readers, it is still fundamentally English.
Shakespearean has had a significant influence on modern English, particularly in terms of vocabulary and expressions. Shakespeare coined many words and phrases that are still in use today. His works have also shaped the development of English literature and language over the centuries.
Yes, Shakespearean can be considered an era in literature, specifically referring to the time when William Shakespeare was active as a playwright and poet. This period is marked by a flourishing of English drama and poetry, with Shakespeare as a central figure. The era is synonymous with the late Elizabethan and early Jacobean periods of English history.
Shakespearean drama is known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and a blend of both tragedy and comedy. These plays often explore universal themes such as love, power, jealousy, and betrayal. Shakespeare's use of iambic pentameter and soliloquies are also defining characteristics of his dramatic works.
Shakespearean sonnets are identified by their specific structure of 14 lines, written in iambic pentameter, and following the rhyme scheme ABABCDCDEFEFGG. They typically explore themes of love, beauty, politics, and mortality. The sonnets are also known for their use of figurative language and exploration of complex emotions.
The Shakespearean era had a profound impact on the English language, enriching it with new vocabulary and expressive capabilities. Shakespeare's inventive use of language, including coining new words and phrases, contributed to the evolution of English. The era also set a precedent for literary excellence and linguistic creativity that influenced subsequent generations of writers.
Shakespearean works are associated with several genres, including tragedy, comedy, history, and romance. His tragedies, such as "Hamlet" and "Macbeth," are known for their exploration of the human condition. His comedies, like "A Midsummer Night's Dream," often involve complex plots with elements of mistaken identity and resolution.
The First Folio is significant in Shakespearean literature as it is the first collected edition of Shakespeare's plays, published in 1623. It is credited with preserving many of his works that might otherwise have been lost. The First Folio is an invaluable resource for scholars and serves as the primary source for many of Shakespeare's plays.
