This Italian surname of AMODEI was originally derived from the given name AMADEO, which was coined in the early Middle Ages from the elements AMA (love) + DEO (God). This was the name of two 12th century Burgundian nobles, father and son, who became Cistercian monks, and their fame led to the popularity of the name. Other spellings include AMADEUS, ADADEI, AMADI, AMADDEI, AMADDIO, AMEDEI, AMMODDEO, AMODDIO, MADDEI, AMADIEU, AMEDEE, AMADE and AMADINI. Surnames as we know them today were first assumed in Europe from the 11th to the 15th Century. The employment in the use of a second name was a custom that was first introduced from the Normans. They themselves had not long before adopted them. It became, in course of time, a mark of gentler blood, and it was deemed a disgrace for gentlemen to have but one single name, as the meaner sort had. At first the coat of arms was a practical matter which served a function on the battlefield and in tournaments. With his helmet covering his face, and armour encasing the knight from head to foot, the only means of identification for his followers, was the insignia painted on his shield and embroidered on his surcoat, the flowing and draped garment worn over the armour. Notables of the name include AMADEUS VI called 'The Green Count' (1334-83) ruler of Savoy, born in Chambery. He succeeded in 1343, founded the Order of the Annunziata and, added Vaud to the possessions of Savoy. Jorge AMADO, born in 1912 is the Brazilian novelist. His early fictions are pervaded with social and political themes. He was imprisoned for his political beliefs in 1935, and latterly spent several years in exile, though he was a communist deputy of the Brazilian parliament from 1946 until 1947. His first novel 'A Pais de Carnaval' was written in 1932. The lion depicted in the arms is the noblest of all wild beasts which is made to be the emblem of strength and valour, and is on that account the most frequently borne in Coat-Armour.