The True Name of Iceland: Unveiling the Country’s Historical Monikers

In the annals of history, Iceland’s identity has been shrouded in various monikers. This article delves into the fascinating journey of Iceland’s true name and its historical aliases to uncover the origins and impact of these titles.

Origin of Iceland's True Name: ísland

In the Icelandic records, the name of Iceland is unequivocally ísland. This name is not just a linguistic representation; it is steeped in the culture and identity of the Icelandic people. ísland translates to ‘ice land’ in English, drawing a direct and powerful connection to the country’s glacial landscapes.

First Settlers and Early Aliases

Naddodd from the Faroe Islands was the first to call upon this land, dubbing it Snalland or Snowland. Curiously, this was in the aftermath of a perilous journey, when the land seemed endlessly covered in snow.

Garear Svavarsson arrived shortly after and stayed for the winter. His naming of the land as Garearshólmur or Garear’s Island provides insight into the personal history of the discoverer and the land.

The most intriguing and lasting name, however, is attributed to Flóki Vilgerearson, also known as Hrafna-Flóki. He is often credited with the name ísland.

A Hometown Hero: Flóki Vilgerearson and the Birth of Iceland

Flóki, along with his family and livestock, sought to settle the island. Using a strategic method involving ravens, he guided himself to Vatnsfj?reur in Westfjords. The harsh winter he faced there resulted in the deaths of his animals, forcing him to return to Norway. However, before he left, he saw a bay filled with drift ice, and thus, he named it ísland, or Iceland.

The Legend of ísland

The name has endured across centuries, cementing its place in history. While some theories suggest that the land known as Thule in Irish monastic records might be the same as Iceland, the evidence remains sparse. Nonetheless, the Irish were among the first European settlers, with hermits reaching the island centuries before the Norse.

A Peak into the Formality of Icelandic Naming

Leyveldi ísland, or The Republic of Iceland in English, is the more formal way to refer to the nation. However, ísland in Icelandic literally means 'ice land'—a nod to the ever-present glaciers and the name that has stood the test of time.

The Modern English Influence

Interestingly, English is unique in translating Iceland as 'íslenska' when referring to the language, which adds an extra layer of connection to the land. Yet, the name as it is known and spoken is ísland.

The True Name in Practice

When visiting Iceland, you will hear ísland pronounced directly. It’s a straightforward name that reflects the true essence of the country. Despite the mythological and historical names, ísland stands as the unchanging, enduring name that encapsulates the real and timeless identity of Iceland.

Additional Context and References

For a deeper dive into the exploration and settlement of Iceland, one can explore the early Norse explorers, the significance of Thule in Irish records, and the detailed accounts of Pytheas in his travels. These narratives provide valuable insights into the cultural and geographical context of Iceland's early history.