Chapter 1 - 4 Summary and Analysis

Folly introduces herself, proclaiming that her influence makes men and gods rejoice. This is evidenced by her speech to the crowd, that everyone appears cheerful. She is dressed in unrecognized clothes because she aims to reflect the Sophists, the old philosophers who gave eulogies for great men; she is speaking to give a eulogy for herself.

Some people denigrate Folly, but this is foolish. She compliments herself because she knows her own true nature; it is not arrogant for her to do so anyway, since it is right and more decent than what many others do. It is better for her to do this than to hire someone else to do it, as many have, and she believes she needs to praise herself since those who should praise her fail to do so. Finally, speakers often praise things far...