Gertrude is a common female given name that has roots in Germanic languages, meaning "spear" and "strength." It has been used in various cultures and has historical significance, appearing in literature and royal families. Notably, Gertrude Stein was a prominent American avant-garde writer and art collector in the early 20th century. In literature, Gertrude is also a character in William Shakespeare's play Hamlet. She is the mother of the protagonist, Hamlet, and is often portrayed as a complex figure caught between her loyalty to her son and her marriage to King Claudius. Her character raises themes of motherhood, betrayal, and the consequences of choices.