Names, why do we have them? Where do names come from? Have people always had names?
Looking back in time, through documented history and historical literature, it is evident that as far back as written language goes, people have had names. Prior to written language however, man has been communicating through speech – human prehistory. The earliest dated written language comes from the early Mesopotamians c.3200BCE but man had been talking for thousands of years before this. And, we know through oral traditions (folklore) that even in these times, people were distinguished through names. In these times, names were given after situations at birth, e.g. thunder; personal appearance, e.g. fair haired; personal attributes e.g. lucky. People lived in small groups, rarely travelling outwith their area, except in times of struggle/attack by enemies. However, as human history progressed, language advanced and naming traditions grew. Foreign influences created new names and a wider variety of names were created as an aid to distinguising one person from another. Notably, in earlier times, in small village groups, duplicate names were unlikely. The need for an increase of names and the introduction of surnames occurred, as a method of creating individual identities. Therefore, it is clear that a name is important to the individual. It is a factor that stays with you throughout your life, and undoubtedly has some influence over people’s perception of you and your identity. This concept was understood in ancient times, as a name was used as a description of the child- as stated previously, e.g fair haired. Therefore, the name told you something about the person. This idea didn’t universally translate through the ages however. The introduction of Christianity, called for the encouragement of children to be named after Biblical figures. In classical times, it was also a tradition to name a child after their parents, and both practices still occur today. Developments over time mean that contemporary society sees a broad spectrum of available names. Language barriers and geography are no longer constraints, and parents can, on the most part, name their child anything, so long as it can be easily understood. Conformity in modern society means, most people don’t branch out beyond “normal” or traditional names (or varients of those!). General country census’s show clear patterns in name popularity. Already suggested, was the idea of children being named after religious figures and family members. This is commonplace today, however more traditional. Families generally consider personal preference above any other factor, when choosing a name. Nice sounding names, names with interesting meanings, or names linked to popular personalities, generally take precedence. But one thing we have to remember is how a name affects a person. Psychologists determine that a name still has impact on a person and their life. Although we are more removed from our names, than our predecessors, with many people ignorant to their own name meaning, or the meaning of their families names, our name still has a psychological impact on us. Generally human thought is influenced by personal experience. What is a nice name to one, maybe be the worst name to another. Mass media has a great influence on name perception, e.g. the name Britney. Automatically most people are reminded of Britney Spears. At the peak of her fame, undoubtedly many children were named Britney, as it was seen to be different, cool and had good connotations. Today however, as her popularity has weaned, and her name is more common, you are less likely to find new mothers naming their child “Britney”.
Considering what to name a child is no easy task. We no longer name our children after personal attributes or happenings at birth and instead have to choose from a mass of names, with different meanings, spelling, stereotypes and nicknames. In fact, a nickname has proven to be a major deciding factor when choosing a name. Some opt to use solely the nickname version, e.g. Eddie, as opposed to Edward, whilst others would rather choose a name that didn’t have a matching nickname, e.g. Liam. If you are pregnant or have just had a baby, and are looking for that special name. Why dont you take a look at our Animal Adventure name gallery on our Facebook page? Here we display a large variety of specially illustrated names. Advisable also, is to create a list of your favorite names, ask friends and families for suggestions and research online and in books for names you may not have heard of. Consider how a name sounds alongside chosen middle names and the surname too.
So it seems, that a name is of primary importance to ones identity, a first impression; a lasting impression! If you have chosen a name for your newborn, have a look at our wonderful range of name products. From the Animal Adventure Framed Name Print, to the Illustrated Canvas, all our gifts display the child’s name beautifully, along with wonderful illustrations. All our products serve well as personalised gifts suitable as Christening gifts, Baptism gifts and Birthday presents. Furthermore, if you are arranging a party/christening to celebrate your child, consider inviting your friends and family in style with one of our lovely personalised invitations.
