Nurturing Characters: The Art of Naming in Historical Fiction

Choosing the right names for characters is a crucial aspect of crafting a compelling and immersive story, especially in historical fiction. This process involves a blend of artistry and research to ensure the names fit the time period and add depth to the characters. In this article, we explore the diverse approaches different writers take when selecting names for their characters, focusing on how these names contribute to the overall narrative and character development.

The Complexity of Character Naming

Many writers have unique philosophies and methodologies when it comes to choosing names for their characters. Take, for instance, a renowned mystery writer, who often named the victims after individuals they disliked or who had mistreated them in the past. Douglas Reeman, a celebrated author of historical and adventure novels, shared an interesting anecdote. He mentioned that a particular name that appeared in several of his books and was consistently associated with a 'jerk' and eventually a tragic demise was also the name of a petty officer who had caused him much distress during his training. This choice was not incidental but rather a reflection of the emotional connection the writer had with the character.

Bob Marble: A Case in Point

In Reeman's novel Bacalao, the character Chief Torpedoman's Mate Bob Marble was a real figure. His name was derived from a retired fleet submarine COB who was a valuable source of technical knowledge during the writing process. This highlights the importance of authenticity in character naming, where personal and professional connections with real-life individuals can significantly influence the narrative.

Inspiration from Real Names

Other writers, however, opt for a more creative approach. For many, the naming process is a matter of intuition and inspiration, plucking names out of the air and ensuring they are not associated with people they personally know. While the names Ames or Thomas frequently find their way into their writing, these are merely mythically employed and pseudo-relatives. The goal, as one writer puts it, is to make the name fit the character and ensure it is true to the time period, often drawing from historical records, online databases, and even medieval name lists.

Choosing Names Based on Period

Historical accuracy is paramount in historical fiction, and writers often turn to reliable sources such as baby-name books, online lists of first names from specific eras, and records like wills and parish records. John Berry, a writer of 18th-century English historical fiction, emphasizes the importance of limited first names in that era. He relies on online lists of commonly used first names and British surnames, ensuring that names are authentic and appropriate for the time period. Occasionally, he might make up a name but makes certain it sounds authentically British.

Foreign Characters

When it comes to foreign characters, writers must choose names with even more care to maintain the authenticity of the narrative. For instance, when writing about characters from other countries, they use online lists of names from those specific regions, ensuring the names are appropriate for the character's background and heritage.

Obtaining Inspiration

Writers often look for inspiration in various sources. One effective method is to look at obituaries and lists of school kids graduating, which can provide a wealth of names and stories. They also stay away from overly common names like 'Kate' or too unusual names, striking a balance that adds depth without overwhelming the reader.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the art of naming characters in historical fiction is a meticulous and creative process. Whether inspired by personal experience, historical research, or online resources, the right names can significantly impact the storytelling and character development. By carefully selecting and naming characters, writers can transport readers into the past and bring their stories to life.