First of all, let me post a link here to the two nerdy history girls, who have shared some advice to would-be novelists of the late 18th century from a newspaper of 1790. Heyer used a few of them. Whether the article is ironic or meant in good faith, it is an amusing list of names that might be used.
Following on from that:
I wandered almost accidentally onto a page of 17th century and late 16th century plays, including Shakespeare apocrypha [plays attributed to the bard, or partially written by him, or in which he may have had some editorial input]. And so here are the names I found, just for kicks and giggles. Some you may recognise from subsequent literary works. Many of the earlier plays were revived with the Restoration, and would have been known, through local performances, or through amateur dramatics, so beloved of the Austen family amongst many others.
Andromana Calista Cynthia Iolante Mirtilla Philoclea
Arane Clara Eugenia Leila Ordelia Pretiosa
Arethusa Cleophila Evadne Leonella Pamela Reginella
Aspatia Clora Gynecia Leonora Panthea Violante
And these ones from the Shakespeare Apocrypha
Amandine Constanta Emilia Lucina Marianna
Artesia Dionyza Estrild Lychorida Modestia
Blanche Dorothy Guendoline Marina Thaisa
I just came across another book, 'Philaro and Elenora, or, The Orphan Twins' printed for a J Barker, 1792. Which is all I can find about it, but I presume it's the usual thing of orphans rising high eventually after trials and tribulations. I assume Philaro is male
A rummage through random aspects of the past that interest me and may be of use or interest to other readers and writers of period fiction. Please note that the stories featured and my artwork for the covers are copyright; and have the courtesy to ask permission if you wish to use anything that is mine, and duly acknowledge it if you do.
