Marina

A modern depiction of Marina. While often visually depicted in formal military-style clothes, she is normally portrayed as a friendly, hospitable and carefree manner.

Marina, alternatively known as Lady Sistine, is the popular national personification of Meridon. Derived from the Latin name for Meridon (Marinum, lit. From the Sea), it also became a poetic and historical name for the nation and the archipelago as a whole, championed by Unionist groups during the Interbellum and especially during the Second Meridonian Civil War as a form of national identity. The association has lead to the name Marina becoming a popular part of many facets of Meridonian culture, lending its name to many works, institutions, and organizations, including Marina University, the popular song Advance Marina Fair, numerous ships and vessels, and the Marina Program. As a personification, she is often used in media works such as comic pieces and portraits as a medium to shine light or discuss various topics. The character was recognized by the Interior Department as a significant piece of Meridonian cultural heritage in 1904.

She is often depicted as a blonde-haired adult woman, most commonly seen in formal military-style clothing, but depictions of her can vary.

History

Origin

The earliest known popular depiction of Marina, drawn by artist Rémi Bourreau in 1702. This portrait hung in Whiteriver Manor until at least 1871, when it was destroyed under mysterious circumstances. It was duplicated a number of times.

A modern emoji variant of Marina utilizing the hashtag "MerrieSweep". Marina has maintained a broad popular appeal with multiple generations and is often seen in emoticons and emojis such as these.