There are three major theories concerning the origin and meaning of the name of Duke Mieszko I of Poland.
The most popular theory, proposed by Jan Długosz, explains that Mieszko is a diminutive of Mieczysław, a combination of two elements or lexemes: Miecz meaning sword and Sław meaning famous.
Ancient Slavic names were abstract in nature[citation needed].
[2] The second most popular theory about the origin and sense of Mieszko's name can be traced to the very old legend, firstly described by Gallus Anonymus, according to which Mesco (the Latinized form used by the earliest sources) was blind during his first seven years of life.
The chronicler related this story (a typical medieval allegory) as follows: This interpretation was a clear reference to the later baptism of the duke: In addition, it is known that the Slavic word "mzec" can be interpreted as "having his eyes closed" or "be blind".