Buzz
“Good evening, Clarice.” These chilling words, spoken by a cannibalistic psychiatrist, first sent shivers down our spines 25 years ago this month.
For those who haven’t spent the last 25 years disconnected from modern media, The Silence of the Lambs follows a serial killer who, in his own twisted and manipulative manner, aids in the hunt for another murderer.
While much attention has been given to the deeper meaning behind the film’s iconic line, the names within the story are equally fascinating. From avian symbolism to themes of excess and the mysterious title itself, let’s delve into the significance of six key names from the movie.
1. CLARICE STARLING
Jodie Foster’s portrayal of the resilient yet sensitive FBI trainee carries a name rich in symbolism. Much like the starling bird, Clarice Starling is nimble and quick. Roger Ebert highlighted the film’s visual juxtapositions, often placing the diminutive Clarice alongside towering male figures.
The name Clarice, as explained by the Baby Naming Wizard, originates from the Latin term *clarus*, signifying brightness or clarity. Clarice serves as a beacon of intelligence and clarity, standing out against the grim backdrop of serial killers and the oppressive darkness of Buffalo Bill’s lair.
2. HANNIBAL LECTER
The cannibalistic killer’s first name not only echoes the word 'cannibal' but also pays homage to Hannibal, the ancient Carthaginian general renowned for his military genius. Similarly, Lecter is a master strategist, manipulating those around him with precision, much like a chess grandmaster.
The surname *Lecter* may derive from *lector*, referring to a reader of religious texts or an academic lecturer, underscoring Hannibal’s erudition. However, it also evokes *lecher*, a term associated with indulgence and depravity, stemming from the Old French *lechier*, meaning 'to lick' or 'to live in excess.' If devouring humans isn’t the epitome of gluttony, what is?
3. I.J. MIGGS
I.J. Miggs, often referred to as Multiple Miggs, is Hannibal Lecter’s fellow inmate, infamous for committing a repulsive act against Clarice—an act that earns him swift retribution from the meticulous doctor.
The meaning of 'I.J.' remains unclear, but the term *mig* relates to urine or the drainage from manure, as noted in the *Oxford English Dictionary*. The 'multiple' in Miggs’s nickname has sparked various interpretations online. Some suggest it hints at multiple personality disorder, while others believe it refers to his numerous criminal acts.
4. BUFFALO BILL
Jame Gumb, notorious for flaying his victims and crafting 'suits' from their skin, earns the moniker Buffalo Bill. This nickname draws a parallel to the showman Buffalo Bill Cody, who allegedly scalped a Cheyenne warrior and hunted countless buffalo, even fashioning a coat from one of them.
The name *Jame* instead of *James* stems from a birth certificate error in the novel’s backstory, a typo that was never amended.
5. CATHERINE MARTIN
The name of Buffalo Bill’s intended victim shares notable parallels with that of the FBI agent who saves her. *Catherine*, derived from the Greek *katharos*, signifies purity and clarity, echoing Clarice’s luminous presence. Additionally, the martin, akin to the starling, is a bird species, further linking the two characters.
Catherine Martin’s name carries deeper symbolism. Saint Catherine of Alexandria, another Catherine, was also imprisoned, though she met martyrdom, unlike the resilient Catherine Martin. The name *martin* originates from the Latin *Martinus*, related to *Mars*, the Roman god of war. True to her name, Catherine wages her own battle, even threatening to harm Precious, Buffalo Bill’s dog, in her fight for survival.
6. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS
What about the film’s title? Beyond leading Anthony Hopkins to believe he was joining a children’s project, it alludes to Clarice Starling’s haunting childhood experience of hearing lambs cry before their slaughter. Lecter probes, “You still wake up sometimes, don’t you? In the dark, hearing the lambs scream? Do you believe saving Catherine would silence them?”
A detailed Quora response unpacks the layered symbolism of lambs. They represent the literal animals facing slaughter, as well as the concept of lambs as sacrificial offerings in religious contexts. Lambs also symbolize purity and innocence, which could apply to Clarice, the inexperienced FBI agent, or Catherine, who narrowly escapes death.
The silence in the title may signify Starling’s desire to save Catherine and others to quiet the screams, but it could also imply that once the screams cease, it’s already too late.
