I understand, now, the French pronunciation of the name Ghislaine, i.e., hard G, silent S, silent N, nasal second part. The recent publicity regarding the name has brought it to be known by more people, including myself, and enlarged the well of things interesting. A comment by an acquaintance of the person with the name shows that the original sound was kept, but I have heard that people in an adopted country say it as they would, so that led me to search and learn more about the name and I have enjoyed that.
As was mentioned with the names Giselle/Gisela, it's hard for me to fathom why anyone would give their child a name that literally means "hostage". Most people probably don't know the meaning, they just think it sounds cool or pretty or like the history of it. But when the child grows up and researches their name, maybe on BTN, they end up saying "my name means "hostage"? Yuck. Why mom and dad?" :p.
I first heard of this name when I saw Ghislaine Maxwell in the news. I thought it was a very odd name. The things she is accused of are horrid. Now, the only thing I can associate with this name is prostitutes, pedophiles, and perverts. I picture that sick woman every time I hear it. No offense to any other Ghislaines out there. But I agree, Ms. Maxwell has somewhat ruined this name for lots of people.