The Moor's Last Sigh, a novel by Salman Rushdie, features a diverse array of characters whose names are deeply resonant with Portuguese, Spanish, Jewish, and Indian cultures, reflecting the rich tapestry of the narrative.
The characters in The Moor's Last Sigh include, but are not limited to, the following:
| Character Name | Cultural Resonance / Significance (as per the novel's themes) |
|---|---|
| Adam Braganza | The central protagonist and narrator, often known as Moraes Zogoiby, "the Moor." His name connects to the Braganza royal house of Portugal. |
| Abraham | A name with strong Jewish and Abrahamic religious connotations. |
| Carmen | A name of Spanish origin, often associated with passion and vibrant culture. |
| Camoens | Likely a reference to Luís Vaz de Camões, Portugal's national poet, whose name reflects the literary and historical depth of the novel. |
| da Gama | Refers to Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, symbolizing the era of discovery and colonial history. |
| Prince Henry the Navigator | A pivotal figure in Portuguese exploration, embodying the historical and seafaring themes. |
| Isabella | A name of Spanish origin, possibly referencing Isabella I of Castile, linking to Spanish history and the expulsion of the Moors. |
| Vasco | Another reference to Vasco da Gama, emphasizing the Portuguese historical lineage and the interconnectedness of families and histories in the novel. |
| Castile | Can refer to the historic kingdom of Castile in Spain, or be a surname/given name, highlighting the Spanish historical context. |
These names underscore Rushdie's intricate weaving of history, myth, and personal narrative, bringing to life a saga that spans generations and continents. The choice of names serves to enrich the novel's themes of identity, displacement, and the complex legacies of colonialism and cultural fusion.
