The Importance of Character Surnames
Surnames, also known as last names or family names, are an integral part of character development in storytelling. They add depth, intrigue, and a sense of history to your characters, enriching their personalities and the world they inhabit.
Why are character surnames important?
- Building a World: Surnames can reflect the culture, history, and geography of your fictional world. For example, in a world where magic is commonplace, surnames might be tied to magical abilities or families known for their magical talents.
- Adding Intrigue: A unique or unusual surname can pique reader interest, prompting them to wonder about the character's background and lineage. This can set up mysteries and create suspense.
- Establishing Relationships: Surnames can be a subtle way to hint at family connections, even if those connections aren't explicitly stated. A shared surname between two characters can suggest a close relationship, while differing surnames can indicate a more distant connection.
- Creating Atmosphere: Surnames can also be used to establish a character's social status or profession. A surname like "Smith" might suggest a more common background, while a surname like "De Vere" could hint at nobility.
How to choose the right surname for your characters?
1. Consider Your World:
- Historical context: Does your world have a history of naming conventions? For example, in a medieval world, surnames might be derived from occupations (Smith, Miller) or places of origin (Brooks, Hill).
- Cultural influences: Are there specific cultural traditions in your world that influence surnames? In some cultures, surnames are passed down through the father's line, while in others, they are passed down through the mother's line.
2. Think About Your Character:
- Personality: What kind of person is your character? Does their personality align with a particular surname? A boisterous and loud character might have a surname like "Thunderbolt," while a quiet and contemplative character might have a surname like "Whisper."
- Background: Where is your character from? What is their social status? What are their family traditions? These elements can all influence their surname.
3. Be Creative:
- Combine existing words: You can create unique surnames by combining existing words. For example, "Nightingale" and "River" can be combined to create "Nightriver."
- Use mythology and folklore: Borrow surnames from myths, legends, or folklore of your world or a real-world culture.
- Play with sounds and syllables: Choose surnames that have a specific sound or rhythm that reflects your character's personality.
Example:
Let's say you're writing a story about a young woman named Anya. You want her to be a skilled warrior with a mysterious past. You could give her the surname "Silvertongue," which suggests both a strong and mysterious character. This surname could hint at her past as a spy or assassin, and it could also foreshadow her ability to manipulate people with her words.
Conclusion:
Character surnames are more than just identifiers; they are valuable tools for shaping your characters and enriching their stories. By carefully choosing surnames that reflect your world, your characters, and your narrative, you can create a more immersive and compelling reading experience.