In Praise of Folly

"In Praise of Folly," written by Erasmus in 1509, is a satirical essay that personifies Folly as a goddess who praises the foolishness found in human nature and society. The work critiques various aspects of the church, philosophy, and human behavior, arguing that folly often brings joy and is a fundamental part of the human experience. Erasmus uses humor to highlight the flaws and hypocrisies of scholars and religious leaders, ultimately advocating for a more humble, self-aware approach to life. The piece encourages readers to reflect on the value of folly in relation to wisdom and societal norms.