The Praise of Folly

The Praise of Folly

Throughout history there have been a number of religious movements that have happened throughout the world. Each religious movement contributed their own effects and brought about many talented and creative individuals with new ideas. One of these religious movements was the Humanist movement, during this movement Desideratum Erasmus became known as one of the leaders who were not afraid to express their ideas of reforming the church. In his book, The Praise of Folly, he stated many of the social problems of his time as well as pointing out the many flaws of the Catholic Church.

The Humanist movement was the time in which Christian humanist wanted to inspire Christians. One of these humanists was Desiderious Erasmus, a Dutch writers and teacher who felt that no one was unable to be Christian or religious. Desiderious Erasmus grew up an orphan and was educated in the monastic life. He was known well for his intellectualness and entered into a monastery which allowed him to travel in pursuit of his studies. Throughout his travels he learned to teach children in both classical knowledge and in Christian morals. He also became quite found of teaching and educating women. Eventually Desiderious Erasmus wrote The Praise of Folly, a small satire literature work that becomes very popular. His piece of work attacked the abuses of the church and state, and also pointed out the social flaws of superstition, religious hypocrisy, and individual foolishness.

In Erasmus’s book, The Praise of Folly, Erasmus uses Folly as his character that speaks his opinions and ideas. He does this in order to protect himself from prosecution as a heretic. As stated above in his book he mentions many problems in his society and that of the church as well. In his book, Folly mocks the Sophisters who she believes that they “only buzle young men heads with certain empty notions and curious trifles”. In the end Folly states that the Sophisters teach them nothing and are only...