Naming illegitimate children in Esztergom in the 19th century
Abstract
Naming illegitimate children in Esztergom in the 19th century
Choosing names for illegitimate children was governed by the same factors as choosing names for legitimate children. Their naming customs were in accordance with the naming practices of the period. On the basis of her investigation the author concludes that in choosing the name, the influence of the godparents and the church were greater in the case of the illegitimate children. This can possibly be explained by the fact that in these exceptional cases, the responsibility taken by the godparents and the protection of a saint played a very important role. Inheriting the name of the godparent was essential with respect to both sexes; still, girls received their godparent's name more often than boys.
