NAMING SYSTEMS IN EVGENII VODOLAZKIN’S «LAVR» THROUGH THE LENS OF MEDIEVAL FOLK TRADITION

Abstract

"The following article will analyze the development of the protagonist of Evgenii Vodolazkin’s novel, Lavr, who is a boy growing up in the author’s imagined, syncretic medieval period, as he undergoes several namings and renamings throughout the course of the plot. During the Russian Middle Ages, one’s name performed a protective and fate-defining role, while also situating its bearer within a framework of familial and religious tradition, thereby strengthening both horizontal ties to other individuals and vertical ties to a divine power. Following Erich Auerbach’s theory of figural interpretation and drawing on folklore, Orthodox chronicles, and onomastic studies, this article will consider the ways in which the main character of the novel is able to subvert the bounds of both space and time through his varied appellations. As the narrative develops, it becomes clear how his names irrevocably link him to his friends, family, historical figures, and ultimately, to the biblical story of salvation. Keywords: name, double names, figural interpretation, salvation, onomastics, etymology, monastic name, baptismal name. "