Sometimes authors use meanings of names to define a character, and I was curious to see if this is what Friel did in Translations. Using the website, Babynamesworld attempted to find out these meanings.
George-Earth worker Sarah- Hebrew for Princess
Manus- Latin for great Owen- Gaelic for well born
Marie- Hebrew for bitter Hugh-Germanic for mind, heart, or spirit
Jimmy Jack- Hebrew for sub planter and Hebrew for god is gracious
Doalty- was not found under firts or last names Bridget-Gaelic for the exalted one
Lancey- French for soldier who was skilled
I found most of these interesting. One can see the characters and their meanings linked in some possible ways. Owen is strong and has more of a dominating personality then his brother Manus. Marie is upset in the book about not being able to understand George. George find Ireland beautiful and would much rather work in the fields and stay then be a solider. Lancey, for the obvious he is a Captain. Hugh, his spirit is in helping those who want to learn, and I believe he has a brilliant mind. However, it isn't shown because he is protrayed as an alcoholic. Manus, I think the way Friel might have linked this is the fact that he is always there for those who need his help. He helps with Sarah and keeps an eye out for his dad. Jimmy Jack, linkage between how he always speaks the "dead languages." It seems as if he were to be real and speak in those tongues, it would flow nicely and sound catching to the ear. I can't really find a linkage between Sarah and Bridget.
Even if Friel did not research the meanings of names that he gave his characters, it is interesting how they can be linked.
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