Are you searching for the perfect name for your furry friend? Why not look to history for some creative inspiration? A late medieval treatise titled The Names of All Manner of Hounds offers a treasure trove of dog names—1,065 unique ones, to be exact—compiled between 1460 and 1480. This fascinating list, written in Middle English, is more than a simple catalog of names; it’s a glimpse into medieval life, language, and the relationship between humans and their canine companions.
Why Were Dog Names Recorded?
David Scott-Macnab, a scholar who has studied this manuscript in detail, points out that the list wasn’t simply a frivolous exercise. For high-status hunters, naming individual dogs wasn’t essential—only a few names were recorded in hunting manuals. However, for the dog-handlers who trained, fed, and worked with these animals daily, each dog’s name mattered. It was their way of recognizing and managing the dogs as individuals, essential for their tasks.
Categories of Dog Names
Scott-Macnab discovered that these names could be divided into several fascinating categories, reflecting the language, culture, and humor of the time. Here are a few highlights:
Desirable Qualities and Abilities
Names like Birdismowthe, Blodeman, Fynder, and Liȝtfote emphasize the hunting skills or desirable traits of the dogs. Others, like Hardye, Trusty, and Stepfaste, reflect loyalty and determination. These names celebrated the dogs’ roles as dependable hunting companions.
Humor and Irony
Some names seem to highlight personality quirks or human traits, often with a touch of humor. Examples include Brayneles, Rage, Flaterere, and Harmeles. These names suggest that medieval dog owners had a keen eye for their dogs’ individuality and weren’t shy about poking fun at them.
Nationalities
Names like Ducheman, German, Norman, and Saresyn point to a fascination with different cultures and perhaps a nod to the diversity of dogs’ origins or personalities.
History and Mythology
The list also borrows names from history, mythology, and even Arthurian legends, including Charlemayne, Achilles, Arture, and Ercules. These names evoke strength, heroism, and grandeur—perfect for a dog with a larger-than-life personality.
Human Occupations and Titles
Ever thought of naming your dog Aldirman, Bowman, or Duchesse? Medieval dog names often drew inspiration from human roles and societal hierarchies, reflecting the interconnectedness of animals and human life.
Miscellaneous Gems
Some names are truly unique and delightful, such as Havegoodday, Penyboy, Belamy, and Makehitgood. These names reveal creativity and even an element of storytelling.
Why Do These Names Matter Today?
This manuscript not only offers a quirky and charming collection of names but also provides insight into the spoken language and cultural practices of the 15th century. Scott-Macnab’s research highlights how names carried meaning, humor, and practical significance. Whether you’re a dog owner, history enthusiast, or language lover, these names are a reminder of the enduring bond between humans and their dogs.
A Medieval Name for Your Modern Dog
If you’re considering a name for your dog, why not choose something unique from this medieval list? Names like Trusty, Blabbe, or Rage could give your pet a distinct identity with a historical twist. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter!
For a full list of these names, check out David Scott-Macnab’s article, The Names of All Manner of Hounds: A Unique Inventory in a Fifteenth-Century Manuscript, published in the journal Viator. You can also access his work on Academia.edu. Who knows? Your dog’s name might just carry a bit of medieval magic.
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