Book Review - Praise of Folly by Erasmus - Sarcasm, Wit & Wisdom

Erasmus was unapologetically the "Andy Rooney" of the 16th Century. Willing to take on the establishment of his day - whether it be Princes or Popes, "Praise of Folly" brings the extremes of the late Renaissance to light. Focusing on the extremes of the cloistered religious and the theologians, Erasmus also explores the reaches of drunkenness, licentiousness, sexuality, youth and education. The introduction and extensive footnotes will open up many vistas that would otherwise be somewhat opaque due to the 500 year gap between Erasmus and the modern reader.

A book that, while not an easy read, will be a refreshing one.