3

In the Wheel of Time series, we see that Lews Therin Telamon has 3 names, but the majority of the other characters and Forsaken in the book only have 2 names. Is it unique that he has 3? Is it of any significance?

3
  • Is Lews Therin Telamon really a forsaken? If so, that needs spoiler tags.
    – user57650
    Jun 20, 2016 at 14:39
  • He isn't saying that Lews Therin is or isn't a forsaken. He asks about the three names and says most of the other characters and forsaken. That implies he could be in either category.
    – Dalton
    Jun 20, 2016 at 14:45
  • 1
    Haven't read the books, but in RL the number of names is generally meant to indicate a direct relation to the person's social standing.
    – T.E.D.
    Jun 20, 2016 at 14:54

3 Answers 3

10

It's significant but not unique.

From the companion volume The World of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time (emphasis mine):

The people of [the Age of Legends] had long outgrown any interest in material wealth as a goal unto itself. Status and honour were all-important, and could only be gained through service to the community. All hoped to be allowed to serve according to their gifts and to be found worthy of that service. Several sources mention the fact that even names reflect a person’s status and honor. Everyone was born with two names and could earn the third one only through accomplishment, apparently possible in many fields.

There were several other people in the Age of Legends besides myself who are known to have had a third name, including eight of the thirteen Forsaken:

0
1

I'm at work, so I can't quote directly from the books until I get home, but the third name was granted to individuals who made great accomplishments. I seem to remember one book saying that one of the Forsaken was jealous that he never got a third name.

-1

Is it unique? No. Looking in the WoT wiki shows that several of the forsaken have 3 names.

Forsaken:

Ishamael: Elan Morin Tedronai

Rahvin: Ared Mosinel

Demandred: Barid Bel Medar

Sammael: Tel Janin Aellinsar

Aginor: Ishar Morrad Chuain

Balthamel: Eval Ramman

Asmodean: Joar Addam Nessosin

Be'lal: Duram Laddel Cham

Lanfear: Mierin Eronaile

Semirhage: Nemene Damendar Boann

Mesaana: Saine Tarasind

Graendal: Kamarile Maradim Nindar

Moghedien: Lilen Moiral

Is it significance? No. At least nothing suggests it. We even have at least one character with 4 names in their full name.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.