Female Names from Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in history, and his works continue to be celebrated and studied around the world. In addition to his timeless stories and characters, Shakespeare also gave us some of the most beautiful and memorable names in literature. If you're looking for a unique and meaningful name for your baby girl, why not turn to the Bard for inspiration? In this article, we'll explore some of the most beautiful and significant female names from Shakespeare's plays, along with their meanings and significance.

Perhaps the most famous female name from Shakespeare's plays, Juliet is the tragic heroine of Romeo and Juliet. The name Juliet is of Latin origin and means "youthful" or "downy," which is fitting for the young and innocent character. Juliet is a timeless and romantic name that has been popular for centuries, and it's easy to see why.

Ophelia is the tragic heroine of Hamlet, and her name is of Greek origin, meaning "help" or "aid." Ophelia is a beautiful and poetic name that has a tragic connotation due to the character's fate in the play. However, it's also a name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the British poet and artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti, who famously painted a series of portraits of his muse, Elizabeth Siddal, as Ophelia.

Portia is a strong and intelligent character from The Merchant of Venice, and her name is of Latin origin, meaning "pig" or "doorkeeper." Despite its unusual meaning, Portia is a beautiful and sophisticated name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the American writer and activist Portia Nelson.

Cordelia is the loyal and virtuous daughter of King Lear, and her name is of Celtic origin, meaning "heart" or "jewel." Cordelia is a beautiful and timeless name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the American writer and activist Cordelia Harvey.

Rosalind is the witty and charming heroine of As You Like It, and her name is of Old German origin, meaning "gentle horse." Rosalind is a beautiful and romantic name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the American writer and feminist Rosalind Franklin.

Viola is the resourceful and resilient heroine of Twelfth Night, and her name is of Latin origin, meaning "violet." Viola is a beautiful and delicate name that has a timeless and romantic quality. It's also a name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the American actress Viola Davis.

Desdemona is the tragic heroine of Othello, and her name is of Greek origin, meaning "unfortunate" or "ill-fated." Despite its tragic connotation, Desdemona is a beautiful and poetic name that has a timeless quality. It's also a name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the American writer and activist Desdemona Babbitt.

Imogen is the virtuous and loyal heroine of Cymbeline, and her name is of Celtic origin, meaning "maiden." Imogen is a beautiful and timeless name that has a romantic and poetic quality. It's also a name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the British actress Imogen Stubbs.

Hermia is the feisty and independent heroine of A Midsummer Night's Dream, and her name is of Greek origin, meaning "messenger." Hermia is a beautiful and unique name that has a strong and independent quality. It's also a name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the American writer and activist Hermia Oliver.

Miranda is the innocent and curious heroine of The Tempest, and her name is of Latin origin, meaning "admirable." Miranda is a beautiful and timeless name that has a romantic and poetic quality. It's also a name that has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the American writer and activist Miranda July.

Shakespeare's plays are a treasure trove of beautiful and meaningful names for baby girls. Whether you're looking for a romantic and timeless name like Juliet or Rosalind, or a strong and independent name like Hermia or Portia, there's a Shakespearean name that's perfect for your little one. By choosing a name from Shakespeare's plays, you're not only giving your child a unique and meaningful name, but you're also connecting them to one of the greatest literary traditions in history.