Innogen

Innogen is a variant spelling historically associated with Imogen, the principal female character in William Shakespeare’s tragedy Cymbeline (c. 1611). In early printed editions the name appears as Innogen, while most modern editions standardize on Imogen. The character is the daughter of King Cymbeline and the wife of Posthumus Leonatus; she is central to the play’s exploration of fidelity, virtue, and the consequences of deception.

In the drama, Innogen’s virtue is tested after accusations and rumors surrounding her marriage lead to separation from Posthumus. She remains steadfast in her loyalty, enduring hardship and navigating a series of disguises and misunderstandings as she seeks to reunite with her husband and clear her name. Her resilience and moral integrity are among the defining qualities attributed to the character, and she is often cited in discussions of early modern female agency in Shakespeare’s works.

Etymology and textual history note that Innogen’s name reflects the editorial history of Cymbeline, where spelling variations were common in the early 17th century. Scholars typically treat Innogen/Imogen as the same character, with Imogen now the standard reference in contemporary criticism and performance.

Cultural impact: Imogen/Innogen remains a frequent subject of literary analysis for themes of fidelity, identity, and gender in Shakespearean drama. The character has been portrayed across stages and screen adaptations, reflecting ongoing interest in her moral steadfastness and emotional depth.