Why Did J.K. Rowling Name Credence in Fantastic Beasts So?

When J.K. Rowling introduced the character Credence Barebone in the Fantastic Beasts series, she chose an intriguing name that carries deep cultural and religious connotations. Let's dive into the reasons behind this choice, exploring the naming traditions of the Puritans and their influence on Credence Barebone's story.

Puritan Naming Customs

The Puritans, a strict Protestant sect, settled in North America in the early 17th century. One of their unique customs was to name children after virtues or religious slogans. This practice was influenced by their strong religious beliefs and the desire to instill moral values in the next generation.

Some of the most commonly used names during that period reflected these virtues, such as Felicity (happiness) and Grace (favor or kind action). This tradition was carried forward into later generations, embodying the Puritanical values of integrity and piety.

The Barebone Family and Their Past

Mary Lou Barebone, a central figure in the Fantastic Beasts narrative, was evocatively named after a historical Scourer, a wizard-hunter who operated during the early stages of the European colonization of North America. The Barebones were descendants of these colonial Scourers, and Mary Lou was likely raised with a strong sense of moral and religious duty.

It's no coincidence that she chose to name the children she adopted with Puritanical names. These names were meant to be a form of virtue-driven naming, reflecting the teachings of her ancestor and her own belief system. By naming the children Modesty, Chastity, and Credence, she aimed to instill the virtues of self-restraint and faith in them.

The Meaning of Credence

Credence, the middle name of Credence Barebone, holds particular significance. This name means 'acceptance, support or belief that something is true.' It's a fitting choice for a character who, at the beginning of the story, places much faith in Gellert Graves, only to be disillusioned when he discovers the truth about Graves' intentions.

The name Credence Barebone therefore symbolizes the character's journey in learning the importance of trust and the harsh realities of life. Credence's experiences in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them were pivotal, culminating in his eventual disillusionment with Graves. This twist in the narrative demonstrates the character's evolution from a naive and trusting individual to a more cautious and resilient one.

Further Reading and Resources

For more insights into the naming conventions of the Puritans and their descendants, consider exploring these resources:

25 Puritan Baby Names from Early America: Discover a rich collection of names inspired by the Puritan tradition. From the Biblical to the Bizarre: Puritan Names - New England Historical Society: Delve into the unique and sometimes unexpected names used by Puritans, providing a fascinating glimpse into their cultural practices.

Through these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and religious contexts that shaped the names and stories in the Fantastic Beasts series, as well as a broader appreciation of the Puritan legacy in American history.

By analyzing these naming conventions and character development, we not only enhance our appreciation of J.K. Rowling's creativity but also gain insights into the profound influence of culture on storytelling.