1. Ananse: A primary variation of Anansi’s name, used widely in Ghana and throughout West Africa. It directly translates to “spider,” a nod to Anansi’s cunning nature.
2. Kwaku Ananse: A common iteration in Akan culture, with “Kwaku” denoting a boy born on Wednesday, showcasing the cultural specificity of Anansi’s origin.
3. Mr. Nancy: Popularized by Neil Gaiman’s “Anansi Boys,” Mr. Nancy is a modern rendition, portraying Anansi as a playful yet wise entity in contemporary stories.
4. Ba Anansi: This version comes from Caribbean folklore, where “Ba” signifies familiarity and kinship, reflecting Anansi’s integration into New World cultures.
5. Kompa Nanzi: Found in Caribbean tales, particularly on islands like Curaçao, this name highlights Anansi’s regional adaptations and enduring legacy.
6. Ntikuma: Known as Anansi’s son, Ntikuma inherits his father’s intelligence and plays crucial roles in various tales, often aiding in retrieving wisdom.
7. Tikelenkelen: Anansi’s big-headed son, known for his distinct appearance and occasionally humorous interactions with his father.
8. Nankonhwea: Described with spindly neck and legs, Nankonhwea adds to the diverse, quirky family dynamics of Anansi’s tales.
9. Afudohwedohwe: This pot-bellied son of Anansi is often depicted in tales showcasing family life and the balance of different talents.
10. Akaki: Known as “Sea Trouble,” Akaki possesses foresight, a skill invaluable in navigating the tricksters’ many adventures.
1. Aunt Nancy: A female iteration of Anansi, prominently featured in African American and Caribbean folklore, showcasing Anansi’s gender fluidity.
2. Sis’ Nancy: Portrayed as a wise woman, Sis’ Nancy contributes to the folklore’s representation of female figures as sources of knowledge and strength.
3. Aso: Anansi’s long-suffering wife, Aso is a steadfast partner, who sometimes joins in his adventures, embodying patience and resilience.
4. Anansewa: Anansi’s daughter, who becomes central in stories about finding her an appropriate suitor, reflecting familial and societal themes.
5. Cookie: A name for Aso in Jamaican lore, it illustrates her nurturing role within Anansi’s family and their shared escapades.
6. Shi Maria: Another name for Aso, used in various tales, showing her diverse narrative roles and cultural adaptations.
7. Crooky: A less common name for Aso, highlighting her cleverness and ability to manage Anansi’s schemes.
8. Yaa: Reflecting another dimension of Aso’s character, where the day-born name indicates her cultural roots.
9. Kompa Nanzi: While primarily a male name, it has female adaptations in certain stories, underscoring Anansi’s versatile nature.
10. Anancy: Occasionally used in female contexts, Anancy retains the trickster’s core attributes while celebrating its feminine representation.