Why Name Zelda and Not Link?
In the Legend of Zelda series, Link is the hero who always saves the world from darkness and evil, while Zelda is the princess who needs to be rescued. However, the origin of the name "Zelda" is a topic of fascination for many fans. Why did Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of the series, choose the name "Zelda" and not "Link"?
The Inspiration from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Wife
According to Shigeru Miyamoto, the name "Zelda" was inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s wife, Zelda Fitzgerald. Miyamoto wanted a name that sounded "pleasant and significant", and Zelda Fitzgerald’s name fit the bill. Zelda Fitzgerald was a famous American novelist, dancer, and socialite who was known for her wit and beauty. By naming the princess after her, Miyamoto was able to give the character a sense of elegance and refinement.
The Story of Zelda and Link
While Link is the hero who always saves the world, Zelda is the princess who needs to be rescued. In many games, she is portrayed as a powerful sorceress who uses her magic to help Link on his quest. Despite her royal status, she is depicted as a kind and gentle person who cares deeply about the people of Hyrule.
Link’s Heroic Journey
Link, on the other hand, is the brave warrior who embarks on a quest to save Hyrule from destruction. He is often depicted as a brave and courageous warrior who is willing to risk his life to save others. His heroic journey is one of the key elements that drives the plot of the series.
Why Link is Not Named After a Famous Person
While Miyamoto chose to name Zelda after a famous person, he did not choose a name for Link from a famous person. This is because Miyamoto wanted Link to be a generic hero who represented the everyman. By giving him a more ordinary name, Miyamoto was able to make him more relatable to players.
The Significance of Zelda’s Name
The significance of Zelda’s name lies in its elegance and sophistication. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Zelda was known for her beauty and refinement, and these qualities are reflected in the character of Princess Zelda in the game. Her name has become synonymous with the character, and she is widely recognized as one of the most iconic princesses in gaming.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the name "Zelda" was chosen because it was a pleasant and significant name that reflected the elegance and sophistication of the character. While Link is the hero of the series, Zelda is the princess who needs to be rescued. Their names have become synonymous with the series, and their stories have captured the hearts of millions of players around the world.
Table: Characteristics of Zelda and Link
| Character | Role | Personality | Abilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zelda | Princess | Gentle, kind | Magic |
| Link | Hero | Brave, courageous | Sword fighting, adventure |
Key Points:
- The name "Zelda" was chosen because it was a pleasant and significant name that reflected the elegance and sophistication of the character.
- F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Zelda was known for her beauty and refinement, and these qualities are reflected in the character of Princess Zelda in the game.
- Link is the brave warrior who embarks on a quest to save Hyrule from destruction.
- The heroic journey of Link is one of the key elements that drives the plot of the series.
- The significance of Zelda’s name lies in its elegance and sophistication.