“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”

-William Shakespeare

How do you name your characters? 

Is it with as much care as you would name your child?

• Some cultures believe that the name of a child will impact the person that they will become.
• Some cultures do not name a child until they show some personality trait, and then choose a name that reflects that.
• Some cultures rename individuals throughout their lives, with a name that is most fitting for that character.
• Some name their children after the parents or a family name.
• Some are named after favorite saints or gods and goddesses.
• Some cultures name according to birth order.
• Some give two or three names, utilizing one or two or three of the above customs.
• Surnames were often given to reflect a person’s profession: John the Baker=John Baker.

Regardless…