Who named his daughter Zelda?

Who Named His Daughter Zelda?

The name Zelda has been a topic of interest for many, particularly after the release of the popular video game series "The Legend of Zelda." However, the name Zelda has a rich history that predates the game series. In this article, we will explore who named his daughter Zelda and delve into the fascinating story behind the name.

F. Scott Fitzgerald and Zelda Sayre

One of the most famous individuals to bear the name Zelda is Zelda Fitzgerald, the wife of author F. Scott Fitzgerald. Zelda was born in 1900 in Montgomery, Alabama, to a wealthy family. She met F. Scott Fitzgerald while attending a party in 1918, and the two began a romantic relationship. They married in 1920 and had a daughter, Frances Scott "Scottie" Fitzgerald, in 1921.

The Inspiration Behind the Name

F. Scott Fitzgerald, being the romantic and imaginative person he was, was inspired by the legend of Zelda, a princess from the 11th-century novel "The Song of Roland." The novel tells the story of the 12th-century French epic poem "The Song of Roland," which is based on the Battle of Roncesvalles. In the story, Zelda is the daughter of the King of Spain and is known for her beauty and bravery.

Fitzgerald was drawn to the name Zelda because of its exotic and romantic connotations. He wanted to name his daughter after the legendary princess, and Zelda Sayre, his wife, agreed. The name Zelda became a symbol of their love and romance, reflecting the whimsical and adventurous spirit of the couple.

Robin Williams and Zelda

Fast-forward to the 21st century, and we have the case of Robin Williams, the American actor and comedian. Williams named his daughter Zelda after the legendary princess, just like F. Scott Fitzgerald. Williams was a huge fan of the video game series "The Legend of Zelda" and was inspired by the name Zelda, which had become synonymous with the game.

The Name Zelda Today

Today, the name Zelda is a popular choice for parents around the world. According to the United States Social Security Administration, Zelda has been a consistently popular name for girls in the United States, ranking as high as #266 in 2014. The name has also gained popularity in other countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

Interesting Facts About the Name Zelda

Here are some interesting facts about the name Zelda:

• Bullying: Unfortunately, the name Zelda has been associated with bullying and teasing, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, with the rise of the video game series and the increasing popularity of the name, the stigma surrounding Zelda has largely disappeared.
• Variations: The name Zelda has several variations, including Zellda, Zeldah, and Zelde. These variations are often used in different cultures and languages.
• Meaning: The name Zelda is of Germanic origin, meaning "gray battle" or "gray warrior." This reflects the bravery and strength of the legendary princess.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name Zelda has a rich history that spans centuries. From its origins in medieval literature to its modern-day popularity, the name Zelda has become a symbol of romance, adventure, and bravery. Whether you’re a fan of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Robin Williams, or the video game series, the name Zelda is a timeless and fascinating choice for parents around the world.

Table: Popular Variations of the Name Zelda

Bullets List: Interesting Facts About the Name Zelda

• The name Zelda has been a popular choice for parents in the United States, ranking as high as #266 in 2014.
• The name Zelda has gained popularity in other countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
• The name Zelda has several variations, including Zellda, Zeldah, and Zelde.
• The name Zelda is of Germanic origin, meaning "gray battle" or "gray warrior."
• The name Zelda has been associated with bullying and teasing, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s.