Published over 500 years ago, this book is a masterpiece of satire that hasn't lost its bite. The entire thing is a speech given by the goddess Folly, who has proudly taken center stage to sing her own praises.

The Story

Folly, daughter of the god of wealth and the nymph of youth, argues that she is the most important force in human life. With a mischievous grin, she walks us through every part of society—showing how foolishness drives love, friendship, business, and even war. She saves her most pointed jokes for the educated elite and the religious authorities of her day, pointing out the gap between their lofty ideals and their very silly, often greedy, actions. The 'story' is really her tour of human absurdity, and we're just along for the laugh-out-loud, cringe-worthy ride.

Why You Should Read It

You should read this because it’s genuinely funny. Erasmus uses humor as a weapon to challenge the powerful, and it’s thrilling to see. Beyond the laughs, there’s a deep, sincere heart to it. Underneath Folly's mocking tone is a real plea for simple, honest, and compassionate Christianity. It makes you think: if the problems of pride, greed, and hypocrisy were this obvious in 1509, what does Folly have to say about our world today?

Final Verdict

This is perfect for anyone who loves sharp wit, political satire, or history that doesn't feel dusty. If you enjoy shows or books that cleverly expose society's flaws, you'll find a kindred spirit in Erasmus. It's a short, potent dose of perspective that proves some truths are timeless.