The name Melanie has its origins in the Greek language, deriving from the word 'melaina' which means 'dark' or 'black'. It was originally a feminine form of the Greek name Melas. The name first appeared in ancient Greece, where it was used as a descriptive name for a person with dark hair or a tanned complexion.

In ancient Greek mythology, there are references to Melanie as a nymph associated with the goddess Artemis. The name is also mentioned in some ancient Greek texts, including works by the historian Herodotus.

The name Melanie gained popularity during the early Christian era, particularly in the 4th and 5th centuries AD. One of the earliest recorded examples of the name is Saint Melania the Elder (ca. 350-410 AD), a Roman Christian saint and Desert Mother who was renowned for her asceticism and charitable works.

Another notable figure with the name Melanie was Melania the Younger (ca. 383-439 AD), the granddaughter of Melania the Elder. She was also a Roman Christian saint and Desert Mother, known for her piety and philanthropy.

In the 6th century, the name Melanie was borne by the Byzantine empress Melania, who was the wife of Emperor Justin I. She played a significant role in the religious and political affairs of the Byzantine Empire during her husband's reign.

During the Middle Ages, the name Melanie was used in various European countries, particularly in France and Germany. One notable bearer of the name was Melanie of La Salette (1831-1904), a French woman who claimed to have had a vision of the Virgin Mary in 1846.

In literature, the name Melanie is associated with the character Melanie Wilkes from the novel "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell, published in 1936. Melanie Wilkes was portrayed as a gentle and compassionate woman during the American Civil War era.