16th century, 17th century, historical figure, Persia, Persian, primary source, quotes, stories
Kachal MusÌ£tÌ£afaÌ„ was a jester to the Persian Safavid king, ShaÌ„h Ê¿AbbaÌ„s I (r. 1588-1629). Typically for a jester, he was given broad access to the court, although with the notable exception of the Shah’s harem. On one occasion, no doubt presuming on his usual...
10th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, stories, Tang dynasty
Generally speaking, jesters enjoyed a widely recognised licence which included the latitude to be irreverent. However, they were dealing with very powerful individuals and sometimes their barbs or mockery would hit home too hard and they would find themselves...
Europe, folk fool, medieval, primary source, quotes, stories
Marcolf is the eternal folk fool, paired with a king noted for his wisdom, Solomon, whom Marcolf always manages to best. Tales of his irreverence were in wide circulation in medieval Europe. Here he resorts to a classic fool trick which is to follow the king’s...
