The universe of 'Baldur's Gate 3' contains several gods referred to only by their last names. Of these, the most debated are the Dead Three - Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul.
The Dead Three are distinctive amongst the deities of 'Baldur's Gate 3' for only ever using their last names. This begs the question: why is this the convention for these gods and not others?
The first point to note is that the Dead Three are former human adventurers turned gods. Their ascension to godhood was a result of their acquisition of the Tablets of Fate in the Time of Troubles.
Before their ascension, they were known by their full names: Bane Barrison Del'Armgo, Bhaal Bhaalspawn, and Myrkul Bey al-Kursi. Each name carries special importance within their associated lore.
Using the last name for the Dead Three is considered a form of respect in the game world. It is not uncommon to address someone of higher status only by their surname - a tradition mirrored in our own world.
Hence, addressing Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul by their last names could act as a signal of their former human status, as well as their present divine position.
It is, in essence, a testament to their transition from mortals to gods. Their last names serve as an indication of their higher status and formidable power.
This deliberate choice by the game developers also helps to emphasize the Dead Three's uniqueness and distinctiveness within the game's pantheon.
Another possible reason for this convention is to create a sense of mystery around the Dead Three. By using only their surnames, the developers may have intended to shroud these characters in a cloak of enigma.
The omission of their first names lends an air of ambiguity to the Dead Three. It makes them seem more distant, unapproachable, and fearsome - qualities befitting such high-status characters.
Moreover, the use of the last names creates a stronger and more impactful tone. There's a certain gravity that comes with using one's last name; it resonates more deeply and holds more power.
This resonation is critical in a game like 'Baldur's Gate 3', where names are not just identifiers but also encompass a character's history, reputation, and status.
The game's lore further supports this convention. In the Forgotten Realms setting, gods are often known by several names - a habit that reflects real-world religious traditions.
The multiple names provide depth to each god's personality, attributes, and influence. Each name functions as an aspect of the deity, offering insight into their multifaceted nature.
Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul are extraordinary cases in that their last names are more frequently cited than their first. By referring to the Dead Three by their last names, the game emphasizes their dominion and might.
This vibrantly illustrates the dynamic character of divine beings in the rich universe of 'Baldur's Gate 3', and contributes considerably to the game's immersive role-playing experience.
Ultimately, the reason why the Dead Three are solely referenced by their last names can only be speculated upon. The game's developers have not released any official statement regarding their motivation.
However, players' understanding of the convention largely relies on their perception of the game's mythology. The last names can rouse feelings of awe, respect, and even fear among players.
This, coupled with the names' lore-rich implications, deepens the immersion into the game world and molds the players' experience - a testament to the sheer depth and complexity of the 'Baldur's Gate 3' mythology.
In the end, the use of last name conventions for the Dead Three cleverly intertwines gameplay, narrative, and player experience, underlining the exceptional narrative prowess of the 'Baldur's Gate 3' developers.