Summary
"Praise of Folly" by Desiderius Erasmus is a satirical work that presents a speech by the goddess Folly, who argues for the necessity and ubiquity of foolishness in human affairs. Folly celebrates the irrational, the impulsive, and the pleasure-seeking aspects of life, contrasting them with the often grim and self-serious nature of wisdom. She begins by establishing her divine parentage, born of Plutus (god of wealth) and Youth, and nurtured by Drunkenness and Ignorance, setting the stage for her unconventional perspective.
Throughout her declamation, Folly praises various forms of foolishness found in different segments of society. She mocks the follies of the common people, such as their superstitions and simple-mindedness, but also critiques the learned, including philosophers, theologians, and scholars, for their excessive intellectualism and detachment from reality. Folly argues that these so-called wise individuals are often the most foolish, as their pursuit of knowledge and reason blinds them to the simple joys and essential illusions that make life bearable. Even rulers and clergy are not spared from her satirical eye, as Folly exposes the vanity and corruption within the Church and the courts.
As the speech progresses, Erasmus subtly shifts the tone, transitioning from lighthearted humor to a more profound exploration of Christian ideals. Folly introduces the concept of Christian foolishness, inspired by St. Paul, which involves embracing humility, self-sacrifice, and a rejection of worldly values. This "folly of the Cross" is presented as the path to true wisdom and salvation, contrasting sharply with the pride and intellectual arrogance of those who seek worldly knowledge. Erasmus uses Folly's voice to critique the scholastic theologians and their abstruse arguments, which he sees as obscuring the true message of the Gospel. He emphasizes the importance of a simple, heartfelt faith, rooted in the teachings of Christ.
The essay concludes with a fervent endorsement of the Christian life, characterized by a kind of divine madness that transcends reason and worldly concerns. This state, according to Folly, is the ultimate goal of the believer, a blissful union with God that surpasses all earthly understanding. While remaining within the framework of the satirical encomium, Erasmus uses "Praise of Folly" to advocate for a return to the essential principles of Christianity, promoting a faith that is both intellectually informed and deeply personal.