De Lof Der Zotheid

A satirical essay written in the early 16th century. The work is a critique of societal norms, religious practices, and the folly of human behavior, narrated from the perspective of the personification of Foolishness, who humorously celebrates her own attributes. Erasmus uses wit and irony to challenge the status quo and provoke reflection on the nature of wisdom and folly. The opening of the work introduces the theme of Foolishness addressing an audience, declaring her role in alleviating the burdens of life through her divine powers. She claims credit for the joy and youthful spirit that accompany human existence, suggesting that life without folly would be excessively serious and dull. The narrator, as Foolishness, speaks highly of herself, criticizing those who engage in wisdom and seriousness, and sets the stage for a broader examination of how folly underpins various aspects of society, including friendships, love, and even governance. This playful tone establishes the character and intention of the essay as a thoughtful and entertaining critique of humanity.