The eagerly awaited 2024 edition of Namn og Nemne, the esteemed Norwegian journal for onomastics (name studies), is finally here! Published by Norsk Namnelag and expertly edited by Ivar Berg and Tor Erik Jenstad, this 41st volume delves deep into the linguistic, historical, and cultural nuances of Norwegian names, shedding light on the fascinating ways language and identity intersect.
Highlights of This Year's Issue:
Eldar Heide's Analysis of Place Names: Heide investigates the relationship between the West Norwegian name "Avløypet" and its Northern and Western counterparts "Avløysa/Avløysinga." His research reveals how coastal communities named these terrain formations based on their appearance of being "peeled" or "loosened" from the mainland, reflecting a shared cultural and linguistic history.
Rare Personal Names Explored: Atle Steinar Langekiehl explores the origins and evolution of the ancient male name "Gautulv," tracing its usage from medieval Norway to its gradual disappearance by the 18th century. The article provides insights into how names encapsulate social hierarchies and regional identity.
Norwegian Place Names in Europe: Hanno Sandvik examines the principles of endonymy and the dynamics of multilingual place names across Europe, offering a cross-cultural perspective on naming conventions.
The Legacy of Gamalnorsk in Norwegian Toponyms: Samuele Mascetti's piece delves into the historical significance of the Gamalnorsk term "mǫð" ('meadow') as preserved in Norwegian place names, bridging the gap between linguistics and geography.
Book Reviews:
- Aud-Kirsti Pedersen reviews Islands of Place and Space: A Festschrift in Honour of Arne Kruse, which celebrates the profound contributions of Kruse to the field.
- Ivar Utne critiques entries on first names in Store Norske Leksikon, underscoring their importance for contemporary Norwegian culture.
A Resource for Scholars and Enthusiasts Alike
Namn og Nemne continues to be an invaluable resource for linguists, historians, and anyone intrigued by the stories embedded in names. With its rigorous research and commitment to preserving Norwegian linguistic heritage, this journal stands at the forefront of onomastic studies.
Subscriptions are available through Novus Forlag at an annual cost of 300 NOK. Dive into this treasure trove of knowledge and uncover the layers of meaning behind the names that shape our world.
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