"In Praise of Folly" is a satirical essay written by Desiderius Erasmus in 1509. The work is presented as a speech by Lady Folly, who humorously critiques various aspects of society, including religion, education, and human behavior. Erasmus uses irony to highlight the foolishness of people who blindly follow conventions and dogmas. The essay is significant for its role in the Renaissance humanist movement, promoting critical thinking and self-reflection. It encourages readers to question established norms and consider the value of folly in human life, suggesting that wisdom often lies in recognizing one's own limitations and imperfections.