Ariana is the Italian version of the Greek name Ariadne, comprised of the elements αρι (ari) "most" and αδνο? (adnos) "holy".[9] The name could also originate from the Welsh arian, meaning "silver". Name imagery and relation to legend Ariadne
In Greek mythology, Ariadne was a princess of Crete who helped Theseus slay the Minotaur. The legend revolves around the Labyrinth: a hidden and enclosed location where people were sent to die as tribute. In this way, Ariana"s name nods to her secluded, tragic life and death. There are parallels between the myth and Ariana"s relationship with her two elder brothers, Albus and Aberforth, and their roles in her life and demise. Aberforth represents the heroic character of Theseus, fighting against Albus and Gellert Grindelwald (who function together as the dual-natured Minotaur). Aberforth was the most devoted to his sister, and was also her favourite; Ariadne also takes an instinctive liking to Theseus. As in the Greek myth Ariana (Ariadne) enables Aberforth (Theseus) to defeat Albus and Gellert (the Minotaur). Additionally, both stories end in tragedy-- Theseus betrays and deserts Ariadne on the island of Naxos. Reading Ariana"s death through this myth, it can be argued that Aberforth may have cast the fatal blow. Alternately, it could be argued that he either failed or did not attempt to prevent her death. Ultimately, her death exists as a source of conflict between the Dumbledore siblings.
The epitaph on Kendra and Ariana"s gravestone, which was made of granite - "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" - is Matthew 6:21 from the Christian Bible. This epitaph, chosen by Albus Dumbledore, is curiously similar to the function of one of Albus Dumbledore"s inventions, the Deluminator.