“The Land of Fire and Ice:” Exploring the Wonders of Iceland

Putting All Emphasis on First Names

Names are of great significance in Iceland, yet different from what one might expect. Icelandic people don’t have family names as such, as their patronymic last names are formed from their father’s first name and a suffix for daughter or son. Women retain their maiden names upon marriage and, if having taken their spouse’s surname abroad, must revert to their original name upon returning to Iceland.

Nonetheless, none of this matters much since everyone is known by their first name only, no matter their profession, from teachers to doctors and politicians, Icelanders emphasize the importance of community and equality over titles.

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