My middle name is Eugene. Unaware of any real personal meaning or significance to me in relation to immediate family, I decided to dig a little deeper into the name.
Historically, Eugene has popped up in some fascinating places. It’s tied to European royalty (think princes and dukes from centuries past) and even has a religious angle with figures like St. Eugene, a 7th century martyr who stood his ground for his beliefs. There’s also Pope Eugene III in the 12th century, who led the Catholic Church during some wild times, like the Second Crusade.
Closer to home, I found out it’s a name that’s had a steady presence in the U.S. as well. It seems to have peaked in popularity around the early 20th century, often as a first name, but still hanging on as a middle name for folks like me.
I’m not sure how much of that “well born” vibe I’ve earned yet. I mean, I try to be a decent person, but I’m no saint or prince. Still, there’s something motivating about carrying a name with that kind of legacy. It makes me wonder if names shape us in subtle ways. Like, do I feel a little more responsible, a little more grounded because of it? Or is it just a fun piece of trivia to pull out at parties? Either way, I’m kind of proud to have Eugene tucked in there, like a hidden badge of honor.
The Social Pie Network! 