giselle

Giselle is a feminine given name used in several languages. It is the French form of the German name Gisela, which is of Germanic origin and is commonly associated with meanings such as “pledge” or, in some sources, “hostage.” The name has appeared in various cultures and has many spellings, including Gisèle, Gisele, and Gisela.

In addition to its use as a personal name, Giselle is best known as the title character of the Romantic ballet Giselle. The ballet was created in 1841 for the Paris Opera by choreographers Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot with music by Adolphe Adam. The lead role of Giselle was originated by the dancer Carlotta Grisi. The ballet tells the story of a naïve peasant girl who dies of heartbreak after discovering her beloved, a nobleman in disguise, is unfaithful. In the afterlife, Giselle becomes a Wilis, a spirit who enforces vengeance on wronged lovers, before ultimately forgiving her lover and saving him. Act II unfolds in a moonlit forest where the Wilis patrols, providing one of the era’s most enduring dramatic tableaux.

Giselle has remained a staple of the classical repertory and is widely regarded as a defining work of Romantic ballet. The name continues to be used for girls in many countries, reflecting its enduring cultural presence in both onomastics and the performing arts.