Penélope

Penélope is the Spanish form of the female given name Penelope, derived from Ancient Greek. In classical literature, Penélope is the wife of Odysseus, celebrated for fidelity and resourcefulness.

In Homeric tradition, Penelope resists suitors during Odysseus's long absence by weaving a shroud for Laertes, then secretly unravelling it each night to delay marriage. This myth has influenced literature and art, making Penelope a symbol of steadfastness and domestic cunning.

Etymology is debated; the name is commonly linked with weaving as a mythic attribute, but the exact linguistic origins are unclear. The form Penélope with the acute accent is standard in Spanish and many Romance languages; Latin- and English-language variants include Penelope and Pénélope.

Notable people: Penélope Cruz (born 1974) is a Spanish actress and one of the best-known bearers of the name; she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008). The name is used widely in Spanish-speaking countries and in other cultures.

In popular culture, Penélope appears as a given name for characters in literature and media, reflecting its mythic roots.