Praise of Folly (Greek Morias Enkomion, Latin Stultitiae Laus) is a brilliant satirical essay penned by Desiderius Erasmus in 1509, which has left a lasting impact on Western literature and played a pivotal role in the Protestant Reformation. In this thought-provoking work, Folly delivers a humorous yet incisive encomium, echoing the style of the ancient satirist Lucian. As the essay unfolds, it shifts from lighthearted banter to a more serious critique, addressing the self-deception and madness of humanity while scrutinizing the superstitions and corrupt practices within the Catholic Church—an institution to which Erasmus remained devoted. Drawing from his own experiences and disappointments in Rome, Erasmus crafts a narrative that is both entertaining and enlightening. The essay gained immense popularity, leading to multiple editions and translations, and was controversially placed on the Index of Forbidden Books by the Council of Trent in 1559. (Summary adapted from Wikipedia)
Praise of Folly
Claim This Podcastby Desiderius Erasmus
Podcast Overview
Praise of Folly (Greek Morias Enkomion, Latin Stultitiae Laus) is a brilliant satirical essay penned by Desiderius Erasmus in 1509, which has left a lasting impact on Western literature and played a pivotal role in the Protestant Reformation. In this thought-provoking work, Folly delivers a humorous yet incisive encomium, echoing the style of the ancient satirist Lucian. As the essay unfolds, it shifts from lighthearted banter to a more serious critique, addressing the self-deception and madness of humanity while scrutinizing the superstitions and corrupt practices within the Catholic Church—an institution to which Erasmus remained devoted. Drawing from his own experiences and disappointments in Rome, Erasmus crafts a narrative that is both entertaining and enlightening. The essay gained immense popularity, leading to multiple editions and translations, and was controversially placed on the Index of Forbidden Books by the Council of Trent in 1559. (Summary adapted from Wikipedia)
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
3/4/2026
1 verified contact email on file for Praise of Folly
Pitch yourself as a guest, propose sponsorships, or reach out directly to the host.
Recent Episodes
August 8, 2026
On Generation and Corruption-Aristotle
"On Generation and Corruption" by Aristotle delves into the fundamental principles of change and the nature of substances in the world around us. This philosophical work explores the processes by which things come into existence and decay, offering timeless insights into the cycles of life and the essence of reality. Aristotle's examination of generation and corruption invites listeners to reflect on the impermanence of existence and the interconnectedness of all things, themes that resonate deeply in today's fast-paced world. Engaging with this text provides a profound understanding of change, making it an enduring piece that challenges us to consider our place within the greater tapestry of life.
August 7, 2026
Revolution, and other Essays-Jack London
"Revolution, and other Essays" by Jack London presents a compelling exploration of social change and the human spirit. Through a collection of thought-provoking essays, London examines the nature of revolution, advocating for a deeper understanding of societal issues and the necessity for transformation. His insights into the struggles for justice and equality remain relevant today, resonating with contemporary audiences who seek to challenge the status quo. This collection not only showcases London's powerful prose but also invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the ongoing quest for a better world, making it an enduring and essential listen.
August 6, 2026
Commentaries on the Gallic War-Gaius Julius Caesar
Gaius Julius Caesar's "Commentaries on the Gallic War" offers a firsthand account of his military campaigns in Gaul, showcasing his strategic brilliance and leadership. This work remains a vital historical document, illustrating the complexities of power, warfare, and the human condition. Its themes of ambition, conflict, and the pursuit of glory resonate even today, reminding us of the timeless nature of human endeavors and the consequences of conquest. By engaging with Caesar's insights and reflections, listeners can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by leaders and the moral dilemmas that arise in times of war.
15 total episodes available
Deep-dive analytics for Praise of Folly
Frequently asked questions
Have a different question and can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our support team by sending us an email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
- What is Praise of Folly?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
No, this podcast does not typically feature guests.
Legal Disclaimer
Pod Engine is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected with any of the podcasts displayed on this platform. We operate independently as a podcast discovery and analytics service.
All podcast artwork, thumbnails, and content displayed on this page are the property of their respective owners and are protected by applicable copyright laws. This includes, but is not limited to, podcast cover art, episode artwork, show descriptions, episode titles, transcripts, audio snippets, and any other content originating from the podcast creators or their licensors.
We display this content under fair use principles and/or implied license for the purpose of podcast discovery, information, and commentary. We make no claim of ownership over any podcast content, artwork, or related materials shown on this platform. All trademarks, service marks, and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
While we strive to ensure all content usage is properly authorized, if you are a rights holder and believe your content is being used inappropriately or without proper authorization, please contact us immediately at hey@podengine.ai for prompt review and appropriate action, which may include content removal or proper attribution.
By accessing and using this platform, you acknowledge and agree to respect all applicable copyright laws and intellectual property rights of content owners. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or commercial use of the content displayed on this platform is strictly prohibited.