16th century, England, Europe, historical figure, primary source, quotes, stories
This extract from the State Papers of Elizabeth I (r. 1558-1603) provides a curious, passing reference to an anonymous jester in the French entourage, notable for being ‘richly dressed’ including a gold chain worth 700-800 crowns, and with, it appears, a...
20th century, Africa, historical figure, quotes
A commonly mentioned feature of the court jester is their acknowledged but informal and ill-defined ‘licence’ to speak out, mock, criticize, tell the truth. Here is a striking description of a caste (or even out-caste) of clowns said to have had...
