De Lof der Zotheid

by Desiderius Erasmus

"De Lof der Zotheid" by Desiderius Erasmus is a satirical work written in 1509. The goddess Folly delivers a speech praising herself and her gifts to humanity. She claims fools are happy and cheerful, while the wise are miserable and somber. Through Folly's voice, Erasmus critiques theologians, clergy, princes, and the Roman Catholic Church. The work explores the contrast between foolishness and wisdom, suggesting that human happiness depends more on pleasant delusion than rational thought.