Writing Tip — Character Names

I love finding just the write names for my characters, and if I need unusual names, myths can offer a gold mine of potential. Below are list of more obscure names from several different mythologies.

But  keep in mind the cardinal rule of character names: Names Must Be Pronounceable. If a name is too difficult to sound out, readers will substitute something familiar or simply bleep over it. I like the name “Koschei”, a villain in a Slavic myth, but have no idea how to pronounce it correctly. If I used it, I would have to adapt it for English readers. Maybe “Koschay”?

Greek and Roman Names

• Atalanta
• Meander
• Dido
• Alecto
• Evander
• Nisus
• Marsyas
• Thetis
• Arion
• Leander
• Cadmus
• Maia
• Nysa

Norse Names

• Sif
• Idun
• Galar
• Brokk
• Alvis
• Gerd
• Thiazi
• Skadi

Celtic Names

• Balor
• Bran
• Branwen
• Bres
• Dagda
• Morrigan
• Caradoc
• Finntan
• Korrigan
• Mael Duin
• Nemed
• Nuada
• Veleda

Central and Eastern Europe

• Sadko
• Morevna
• Perun
• Mati Syra
• Kurent

If you need to create original names for characters, where do you find inspiration?