If you’re dreaming of a name that’s lyrical, timeless, and full of literary grace, the world of Shakespeare is the perfect place to look. The Bard’s plays are brimming with unforgettable female characters — from clever heroines and queens to enchanted fairies and tragic beauties. These Shakespearean-inspired girls’ names are rich in history and emotion, often poetic in sound and steeped in story. Whether you’re drawn to a classic like Juliet or a rare gem like Perdita, these 40 names offer drama, depth, and a touch of magic — perfect for a little girl destined to stand out….
1. Juliet
Romantic, timeless, and instantly recognizable, Juliet is the iconic heroine of Romeo and Juliet. The name is soft, elegant, and full of poetic tragedy and youthful passion.
2. Ophelia
A hauntingly beautiful name from Hamlet, Ophelia has surged in popularity for its vintage charm and ethereal feel. It evokes depth, emotion, and classic femininity.
3. Viola
Clever, brave, and witty, Viola is the quick-thinking heroine of Twelfth Night. Her name has a musical lilt and floral undertone, making it a perfect blend of strength and beauty.
4. Cordelia
A virtuous and noble name from King Lear, Cordelia stands for loyalty and grace. It feels regal and soft, with just the right touch of literary elegance.
5. Miranda
Bright, curious, and full of wonder, Miranda is the daughter of Prospero in The Tempest. Shakespeare himself coined the name, giving it the meaning “worthy of admiration.”
6. Rosalind
Rosalind, the bold and brilliant heroine of As You Like It, disguises herself as a man to navigate love and loyalty. The name is classic yet spirited, with vintage charm and strength.
7. Beatrice
Witty, headstrong, and unforgettable, Beatrice from Much Ado About Nothing is one of Shakespeare’s most beloved characters. Her name feels both strong and timeless.
8. Helena
A name of quiet strength and deep feeling, Helena appears in both A Midsummer Night’s Dream and All’s Well That Ends Well. It’s graceful, classic, and slightly mysterious.
9. Portia
From The Merchant of Venice, Portia is clever, eloquent, and fiercely independent. Her name carries refinement and intelligence, with a regal, underused elegance.
10. Perdita
Meaning “lost” in Latin, Perdita is a lyrical, fairy-tale-like name from The Winter’s Tale. It’s rare, dreamy, and full of quiet magic — ideal for a poetic soul.
11. Imogen
Though a printer’s error may have changed her name from “Innogen,” Imogen from Cymbeline has become a beloved Shakespearean heroine. The name feels soft yet strong, and has an understated, literary elegance.
12. Hero
From Much Ado About Nothing, Hero is a gentle, loyal character with a quietly romantic presence. The name is bold in sound but feminine in essence — perfect for parents seeking something rare and meaningful.
13. Lavinia
Tragic and noble, Lavinia from Titus Andronicus is a name full of history and grandeur. Its flowing sound and classical roots give it a graceful, almost regal tone.
14. Titania
The dazzling Queen of the Fairies in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Titania is a name full of magic and power. It’s dramatic, majestic, and ideal for a little girl with a big presence.
15. Celia
Sweet and intelligent, Celia is a beloved companion in As You Like It. The name is gentle, melodic, and effortlessly classic — a lovely alternative to more popular vintage picks.
16. Nerissa
From The Merchant of Venice, Nerissa is clever, loyal, and graceful. Her name is lyrical and rare, offering a fresh yet familiar-sounding choice for lovers of elegant names.
17. Paulina
A noblewoman in The Winter’s Tale, Paulina is brave, loyal, and full of wisdom. Her name feels dignified and powerful with European flair.
18. Tamora
The fierce Queen of the Goths in Titus Andronicus, Tamora is one of Shakespeare’s darker characters — but her name is bold, commanding, and rich with dramatic energy.
19. Desdemona
The tragic heroine of Othello, Desdemona’s name is hauntingly beautiful and filled with emotion. It’s lyrical and rare, perfect for parents drawn to romantic, operatic names.
20. Audrey
A humble shepherdess in As You Like It, Audrey is a soft, vintage pick that has stood the test of time. It’s sweet and simple with a touch of Shakespearean charm.
21. Emilia
A noble and spirited character from Othello, Emilia is wise, outspoken, and ahead of her time. The name is elegant and timeless, with a soft yet empowered feel.
22. Marina
The gentle and virtuous daughter of Pericles in Pericles, Prince of Tyre, Marina has a serene, oceanic feel. It’s lyrical, graceful, and rich in literary beauty.
23. Diana
Found in All’s Well That Ends Well, Diana carries celestial and mythological weight. It’s strong, classic, and eternally elegant — a name with divine associations.
24. Katharina
The fiery heroine of The Taming of the Shrew, Katharina (or Katherina) is sharp-witted and bold. The name itself has a regal, commanding energy that suits a strong personality.
25. Margaret
Appearing in multiple plays including Much Ado About Nothing and Henry VI, Margaret is a timeless name with royal connotations. It’s strong, classic, and quietly powerful.
26. Isobel
Though not featured in the canon, Isobel is often used as a Shakespearean variant of Isabel in adaptations. It’s soft, lyrical, and vintage-chic — a beautiful name with timeless appeal.
27. Luciana
From The Comedy of Errors, Luciana is gentle, intelligent, and kind. The name is lush and feminine, with an elegant flow and Latin grace.
28. Phoebe
A shepherdess in As You Like It, Phoebe is spirited, headstrong, and a little wild. The name is crisp, energetic, and full of natural charm.
29. Hermione
Known today from another literary universe, Hermione originally appeared as a dignified queen in The Winter’s Tale. It’s magical, strong, and full of Shakespearean sophistication.
30. Alice
Though not featured in a specific play, Alice was a common name in Shakespeare’s time and appears in stage directions and minor roles. It’s sweet, vintage, and beautifully enduring.
31. Cressida
A tragic romantic figure from Troilus and Cressida, Cressida is a sophisticated and underused name with a graceful, aristocratic sound and deep literary roots.
32. Patience
While not one of the Bard’s best-known characters, Patience is mentioned in Twelfth Night and elsewhere. The name itself evokes quiet strength and timeless virtue — ideal for a gentle soul.
33. Joan
Appearing in Henry VI, Joan of Arc is portrayed as brave and bold. The name Joan is strong, classic, and tied to historical and literary heroism.
34. Hecate
A mysterious and powerful figure in Macbeth, Hecate is the goddess of witchcraft. The name is rare, mystical, and perfect for a bold and magical choice.
35. Aliena
The alias used by Rosalind when she disguises herself in As You Like It, Aliena is a lyrical and uncommon name that feels soft and enchanting.
36. Blanche
Seen in King John, Blanche is a name with vintage elegance. It feels refined and chic, offering a French-inspired flair that’s quietly sophisticated.
37. Thaisa
A queen and loving mother in Pericles, Prince of Tyre, Thaisa is graceful and melodious. It’s rare but intuitive, with a regal Shakespearean air.
38. Claribel
A minor character mentioned in The Tempest, Claribel is musical, vintage, and sweetly old-fashioned. It’s a charming choice that feels like a hidden literary gem.
39. Helena
A second appearance for this timeless name — found in multiple plays, Helena is a name full of quiet determination, beauty, and enduring grace.
40. Ariel
The magical spirit in The Tempest, Ariel is gender-neutral in the play but has since become a beautiful and whimsical girls’ name. It feels light, lyrical, and a little enchanted.