Κρατύλος

In this ancient dialogue, Plato pits Socrates against his companions in a lively debate about the origins and correctness of names. The discussion moves from the raw sounds made by the body—cries, coughs, and even the gag of vomiting—to the way those noises become conventional words that shape thought. Listeners are invited to follow the argument that language is not merely a tool but a window onto reality, and to consider whether names capture the essence of the things they denote.

The edition opens with a concise scholarly introduction that frames the linguistic puzzles in both historical and modern terms. It highlights early etymological ideas, such as the role of spontaneous vocalizations and folk‑etymology, and explains how these foundations echo through later thinkers like the Theaetetus and the Sophists. Detailed footnotes and clear explanations make the ancient arguments approachable for anyone curious about how words acquire meaning.