The Praise of Folly

Definition

The Praise of Folly is a satirical work written by Erasmus in 1509 that criticizes the corrupt practices of society, particularly within the Church and among scholars. This work uses humor and irony to highlight the follies of mankind, connecting deeply with the Northern Renaissance's focus on humanism and reform. It also reflects the impact of printing technology in spreading ideas and challenging traditional beliefs during the 16th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Erasmus wrote The Praise of Folly as a way to critique the shortcomings of contemporary society while maintaining a humorous tone, making it accessible to a wide audience.
2. The book was published shortly after the invention of the printing press, which allowed for rapid distribution and contributed to its popularity across Europe.
3. The Praise of Folly targets various aspects of society including greed, vanity, and religious hypocrisy, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and beliefs.
4. Erasmus's work is seen as a precursor to later criticisms of the Catholic Church that would culminate in the Protestant Reformation.
5. The satire within The Praise of Folly played a key role in shaping public opinion against certain practices within the Church, influencing reformist thought during the 16th century.

Review Questions

• How does The Praise of Folly reflect the ideals of humanism that were prevalent during the Northern Renaissance?
  • The Praise of Folly embodies humanist ideals by focusing on individual experience and critique of societal norms. Erasmus uses satire to encourage people to think critically about their actions and beliefs, reflecting a shift away from purely religious concerns to a more secular and personal understanding of morality. This connection between humor and serious critique highlights the humanist movement's emphasis on education, self-improvement, and intellectual inquiry.
• Discuss the impact of the printing press on the dissemination of The Praise of Folly and its themes in 16th-century Europe.
  • The printing press significantly enhanced the reach of The Praise of Folly, allowing Erasmus's ideas to spread rapidly across Europe. This technological advancement enabled more people to access literature that challenged established norms and criticized societal issues. As copies circulated widely, they stimulated discussions about religion, morality, and governance, contributing to an environment ripe for reformist movements like the Protestant Reformation.
• Evaluate how The Praise of Folly influenced societal views on religion and politics during the 16th century.
  • The Praise of Folly played a crucial role in shaping public perceptions about religion and politics by exposing corruption within the Church and encouraging critical thought among readers. Erasmus’s satirical approach made serious critiques more palatable, prompting individuals to reconsider their loyalty to established institutions. This questioning atmosphere contributed to significant shifts in religious beliefs and practices, setting the stage for broader political changes during the Reformation as people began advocating for reform based on personal faith rather than blind adherence.

Related terms

Humanism: A cultural and intellectual movement that emphasized the study of classical texts, the value of individual human experience, and a focus on secular subjects.

Printing Press: An invention that revolutionized the production of books, making literature more accessible and facilitating the spread of new ideas during the Renaissance.

Reformation: A religious movement in the 16th century that aimed to reform the Catholic Church and led to the establishment of Protestant churches.