Nombres viejos y nombres nuevos. Sobre la onomástica moderna

Abstract

In this paper we focus on the names and naming patterns used during the Early Modern Age in Navarre (1530-1740). Our sources are notary's records, from which we have obtained about 6.500 names of people who signed a document along this period of time: 3.700 males and 2.500 females. The study is divided in shorter time periods. As a result, we proved that there were changes in naming patterns. It seems clear that one of the main reasons was the application of Trent Council's decrees (after 1563) and local synod that followed it: those names inspired by Middle Ages literature or by classical heros were replaced by saint's names, both old and new. In this rural area, tradition does really matter. New trends did not replace the traditional naming patterns, because this was inspired by old saints. But the new trends underlines the individuality of the carrier; and composed names are becoming more common, as a away of breaking homonymity. We place the evolution of this region inside the European context.

Keywords

• onomástica
• navarra
• edad moderna
• siglos xvi y xvii
• concilio de trento