Fools & Folly in Flemish Art

In praise of folly: on the fool and the jester in Flemish art, an important motif in medieval art, especially in the Low Countries.

According to medieval theologians, faith is a deadly serious business. Humor and virtue are irreconcilable, because laughter is uncontrollable and escapes the control of reason. A modest smile is permitted. But laughing loudly, grinning and grimacing: these are the playing field of the devil – just as pernicious as other uncontrollable urges, such as physical lo...