What was the purpose of naming a sword in british literature?

I am writing a paper about Bilbo Baggins [from the Hobbit] becoming a hero and i need to explain the importance of naming his sword "sting".

What was the purpose of naming a sword in british literature?
Well, the classic example would be "Excaliber", the name of King Arthur's sword. The naming of a weapon or item is a way of personifying the object. The act of giving a name makes it more than a "mere object". With a name, it could be seen to have more human-like qualities. In Arthur's case, the sword had the ability to "choose" the next King, and not only had a name, but the ability to determine the morals, wisdom, and character of a king! The drawing of Excaliber from the stone is a transforming moment for Arthur, and the name is closely associated with the moment he transforms from a boy to a man, and from a commoner to a king.





In the Hobbit, Bilbo slays a spider and feels stronger and more powerful through the act of holding the sword. It is at that moment that he gives the sword the name "Sting." Naming the sword gives value and recognition to the object and the actions that have changed him so much. "Sting," as a verb, conjures images of precise, sharp action -- things that may not be natural to most Hobbits, since they are naturally peaceful and unassuming. Naming the sword is a transforming moment for Bilbo, and he is transitioning from his role of reluctant participant to an active hero in the story.

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