Bedivere Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Bedivere

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name BEDIVERE. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Bedivere

Gender

Male

Origin

Arthurian

Lucky Number

Meaning of the Name

Bedivere is the name of one of King Arthur's most loyal knights, famous for returning Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake. The name represents unwavering loyalty and the fulfillment of sacred duties in Arthurian legend.

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Neptune (Ketu)

Positive Nature

Intuitive, analytical, spiritual, and inquisitive.

Negative Traits

Secretive, reserved, aloof, and can be overly critical.

Lucky Colours

Green, yellow.

Lucky Days

Monday.

Lucky Stones

Cat’s eye, moonstone.

Harmony Numbers

1, 5, 6.

Best Suited Professions

Scientists, researchers, spiritual leaders, detectives.

What People Like About You

Depth of knowledge, analytical skills, spirituality.

Famous People Named Bedivere

Sir Bedivere

Arthurian Knight

Returned Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after King Arthur's final battle

Bedivere (Literary Character)

Literary Figure

Featured in major Arthurian texts including Le Morte d'Arthur as Arthur's loyal companion

Bedivere (Welsh Tradition)

Welsh Hero

Appears in early Welsh literature as Bedwyr, known for exceptional combat skills

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Bedwyr Welsh Bedevere English Bédoier French Bedivere Anglo-Norman

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Bedivere occupies a pivotal role in Arthurian legend as one of King Arthur's original knights and the bearer of Arthur's final command. His cultural significance stems primarily from his crucial role in the conclusion of the Arthurian saga, where he serves as the instrument through which Excalibur returns to its mystical origins. This act symbolizes the end of an era and the transition from Arthur's rule back to the supernatural forces that enabled it. In Welsh tradition, preceding his Arthurian incorporation, Bedwyr appears as a prominent figure in the Mabinogion and Welsh Triads, often noted for his martial prowess and loyalty. Across centuries of literary evolution, from Geoffrey of Monmouth's 12th-century chronicles to Malory's 15th-century compilation, Bedivere's character consistently represents unwavering loyalty and the solemn duty of witnessing history's turning points. His three attempts to discard Excalibur before finally obeying Arthur's command create a powerful narrative about human hesitation, the weight of responsibility, and ultimate faithfulness. This moment has become one of the most iconic scenes in Arthurian literature, establishing Bedivere as the archetypal loyal retainer who bridges the mortal and magical realms.

Extended Personality Analysis

Bedivere's personality is defined by deep loyalty and contemplative devotion, qualities that make him one of Arthur's most trusted companions. His initial reluctance to throw Excalibur into the lake reveals a thoughtful, questioning nature—he understands the sword's symbolic importance and struggles with the finality of discarding such a powerful artifact. This hesitation demonstrates not disobedience but rather a profound appreciation for the significance of his actions. When he ultimately fulfills his duty, it shows his capacity to overcome personal attachment for higher principles. His role as Arthur's cup-bearer suggests qualities of discretion, reliability, and intimate trustworthiness. The emotional burden he carries as the last knight standing with Arthur positions him as a figure of solemn duty and historical witness. His character development throughout the final scenes shows growth from doubt to acceptance, from personal attachment to selfless service. These traits combine to create a complex figure who embodies the tension between human emotion and sacred duty, making him one of the most psychologically resonant characters in the Arthurian tradition despite his relatively limited narrative presence.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary naming practices, Bedivere remains an extraordinarily rare choice, primarily confined to Arthurian enthusiasts, historical fiction contexts, and families with strong connections to Celtic mythology or medieval literature. The name has never achieved mainstream popularity and doesn't appear on official birth name registries in English-speaking countries. Its usage is almost exclusively limited to the United Kingdom and United States, where Arthurian legends maintain cultural relevance. The name occasionally surfaces in fantasy literature, role-playing games, and historical reenactment communities. Its complexity, strong character association, and medieval origins make it challenging for everyday use in modern society. However, it maintains a dedicated following among those who appreciate its rich literary heritage and symbolic weight. Some parents choose it as a distinctive middle name to honor Arthurian traditions without committing to its unusual nature as a first name. The name's continued presence in popular culture adaptations of Arthurian legends ensures its survival, though likely never as a common given name.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Bedivere symbolizes the completion of sacred obligations and the acceptance of historical transitions. His defining act—returning Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake—represents the necessary release of power and the acknowledgment that all reigns must eventually end. This makes him an emblem of closure, faithful service, and the wisdom that comes from being the final witness to great events. The three attempts required to fulfill Arthur's command mirror universal human experiences with doubt, hesitation, and the gradual acceptance of difficult truths. As the last knight serving Arthur, he embodies the concept of loyal stewardship—the responsibility to see things through to their conclusion and preserve the memory of what has passed. His character also serves as a bridge between the magical and mortal realms, acting as the human agent through which supernatural forces interact with human history. The name carries profound connotations of final service, the bittersweet nature of endings, and the quiet dignity of being the one who remains to ensure proper closure.

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