Names

To Walter Shandy, names are as important as noses, in determining character. According to him, Martin Luther would not have been an important figure in history if he had been given a different name. [Not that he thinks Martin is an especially good name -- just fair.] Therefore, Walter's solution to the problem of his new child's crushed nose is to name him Trismegistus, the name of the greatest king, lawgiver, philosopher, priest and engineer ever. Walter's rationale is that if one does not have a sizable nose he, at least, has a chance in life if he has a significant name, and this is one of the best. The absolute worst name that has ever existed is Tristram -- the name with which his child is accidently christened.

Click here for the first passage on Names in Volume I.
Click here for the first passage on Names in Volume II.

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Last modified May 12, 1996. Maintained by Keith Earley.
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