A rare Ukrainian surname may have a connection with ancient Greek kings: history

0 < p>Over the centuries, numerous events took place on the territory of Ukraine that influenced the formation of its national identity. One of the important aspects of this heritage are Ukrainian surnames, which often contain mysteries of the past.

Historically, the territory of modern Ukraine was often the meeting place of a huge number of different peoples and civilizations, many of which influenced Ukrainian culture and identity.

At the same time, ancient Greece, known for its myths, legends and powerful kings, had great influence on the development of European civilization. Its culture, science and political system have certainly left their mark on many modern nations. That is why linguists came up with the theory that the rare Ukrainian surname Atamas may have roots dating back millennia.

The theory about the origin of the surname Athamas

The ancient Greek king who ruled the city of Orchomenos was called Afamant (Athamas). In local mythology, he was considered the son of the Thessalian king Aeolus, who in turn was the grandson of Prometheus.

He became widely known thanks to myths about his numerous unsuccessful marriages. At first he left his wife – the goddess of the clouds Nefela because of his love for the daughter of the king of Thebes, Ino. Later, he also left her in order to marry the daughter of the king of the Lapiths Gypseus, named Themisto.

However, most scholars are still inclined to believe that this theory is unlikely, since Ukrainian surnames began to appear in the 16th century of our era, and began to gain popularity only in the 17th century. That is, no personalities and events of the past millennia could influence their formation.

A more realistic and probable version of the origin of the name Athamas is connected with the word otaman. In the past, it could refer to any any person who led something, be it a state or a herd of cattle.