From the book
Lysis
Plato · Diotimos Editions · 2026
Browse this book’s lexicon →Orientation
At a Glance
- The wordMathētēs means pupil, learner; one formed by another’s teaching or example.
- In LysisMenexenus is called Κτησίππου μαθητής, “Ctesippus’ pupil,” to explain why he is formidable in argument.
- Reading contextDistinguish the person learning from μανθάνω, the act of learning or grasping what is said.
- A place to readThe Greek example means “Ctesippus’ pupil.”
- English renderings
- Pupil, learner; one formed by another’s teaching or example
Meaning
Pupil, learner; one formed by another’s teaching or example.
Grammatical category: noun, masculine.
Use in the book
Menexenus is called Κτησίππου μαθητής, “Ctesippus’ pupil,” to explain why he is formidable in argument. The characterization connects his contentious style with an older participant already shown teasing Hippothales.
The noun marks an educational relationship, but this short remark does not prove a formal school arrangement, a fee, or a fixed course of study. It is part of Socrates’ mock hesitation before speaking with Menexenus. Distinguish the person learning from μανθάνω, the act of learning or grasping what is said.
Places to read
- 211cΚτησίππου μαθητής — Ctesippus’ pupil.