Solange

Solange is a distinctly French female name derived from the Medieval Roman Sollemnia meaning “religious” ultimately traced to the Latin “sollemnis” meaning “solemn.” The name was made famous by a 9th century Frankish saint, a shepherdess who was martyred after being killed by her suitor. Born in central France, Solange came from a family of meager means but raised to be devoutly religious – in fact, she consecrated her virginity at the ripe old age of seven. Her beauty and popularity attracted many men as she grew older, but she spurned their advances having already given herself over to Christ. One such suitor, the powerful son of a nearby Frankish Count, apparently wouldn’t take no for an answer – and so he attempted to take the young Solange by force. In her violent struggle to get away, her angry abductor took his sword and beheaded her. This is when, according to medieval legend, Solange became what is known as a “cephalophore” saint (i.e., a head-carrying saint). In other words, Solange picked up her severed head – which continued to invoke the name of Jesus – as she walked to a local church before lying down to die. Such legends were hugely popular – particularly in France – which is why Solange became so highly venerated (and why her name survived). In the 13th century, an altar was built in her honor at the very church she was said to have carried her talking head. The religious element of Solange’s name has taken on the expanded meanings of “festive,” “ceremonious,” “religious” and “solemn.”