Many view William Shakespeare as merely a historical figure known for his plays and poetry, often brushed aside as a relic of high school literature classes. Yet, for countless admirers, he stands as one of the greatest literary minds, adept at expressing the complexities of human emotion in ways that resonate even today. A number of enthusiasts are so inspired by Shakespeare that they choose to name their children after his memorable characters. After all, literature has long served as a rich source of name inspiration, and Shakespeare’s extensive body of work provides a treasure trove of options.
Despite Shakespeare’s life spanning from 1564 to 1616, many names from his plays remain timeless and relevant. An interesting tidbit: Shakespeare’s wife was named Anne Hathaway (not the contemporary actress), and they had three children: Susanna, Judith, and Hamnet (yes, that’s correct). If you’re hunting for Shakespearean names, look no further than his iconic plays like Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, and many others, which are filled with beautiful and classic names.
To make your search easier, we’ve compiled a list of Shakespearean names for boys, girls, and those that are gender-neutral, along with the plays they hail from. Here’s a glimpse into the world of Shakespearean names:
Shakespearean Names for Girls
- Adriana — The Comedy of Errors
- Cressida — Troilus and Cressida
- Juliet — Romeo and Juliet
- Viola — Twelfth Night
Shakespearean Names for Boys
- Caesar — Julius Caesar
- Hamlet — Hamlet
- Orlando — As You Like It
- Tybalt — Romeo and Juliet
For an even more extensive list, check out this other blog post that dives deeper into Shakespearean names.
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As you contemplate these names, consider how they might shape your child’s identity and connection to literature. Shakespeare’s characters often embody rich stories and emotions, making these names not just labels, but legacies.
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In summary, Shakespearean names offer a unique blend of classic elegance and literary significance, providing a perfect way to honor the Bard while giving your child a name that stands the test of time.

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