It is with love of life and all that live that I dare to suggest that the name 'Arthur' will soon enjoy a resurgence in popularity. Though one out of every 7 boys in Belgium have been given this moniker, in the States it is certainly no Jacob [1]. Still, with some of the most influential history makers bearing the name, it is only a matter of time.
Names, like clothes, are a statement. In fact, in some countries, and eras, there is more in a name than how it rings in parental ears. There are political and socioeconomic prejudices that can work for or against a person, simply based on their name. To choose the wrong name could be to welcome undesirable attention from people who feel strongly against the ideologies and philosophies of people that share that name.
When the Greeks officially turned away from multi-deity worship in favor of the Greek Orthodox Church, it actually became illegal to use certain names associated with anything that did not espouse the new ideals. To be called Eugene was to invite persecution.
Take for example the names Jesus, Adolph, Elvis, Eugene, or Ossama. No doubt, each brought up an image in the gentle reader's mind. Though each being common and popular in their own right, a couple would be wise to think twice before choosing such a name... unless, they were attempting to make a definite statement.
On the other hand, time heals all wounds and perhaps those statements would not ring so clear or true with the passage of a few generations. Perhaps on meeting a beautiful newborn Arthur, one's mind won't automatically associate his innocence with King Arthur and Knights of the Round Table, President Arthur Chester, Arthur Miller, Arthur C. Clark, the Dudley Moore movie Arthur, or Arthur the cartoon.
The origins of the name is not clearly defined. It is thought to have been first used in Britain and pre-dates Roman times. The meaning is approximated to mean either "bear" or "stone", depending on if you opt for the Celtic or Gaelic translation. It is a name that promotes an image of power and strength, and as such, is sure to see a resurgence in popularity.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur
http://www.yeahbaby.com/world-name-popularity.php?name=Arthur
http://babynamesworld.parentsconnect.com/meaning_of_Arthur.html
