Netherlands · Erasmus "Laus Stultitiae

Erasmus came from Rotterdam, but lived for extended periods in Paris, England, Leuven (Löwen), Basel and Freiburg im Breisgau, among other places. He was thus part of a Europe-wide network of scholars in which books, letters and ideas circulated across political and linguistic borders. He wrote predominantly in Latin, the common scholarly language of his time. In addition to his own writings, he published annotated editions of ancient authors and Christian texts. His edition of the Greek New Testament was intended to enable more precise study of the original sources.

In Praise of Folly (“Lob der Torheit”) was written during a stay in England and is dedicated to Erasmus’ friend Thomas Morus. The Latin title “Moriae encomium” also contains a play on his name. In the text, Folly appears as a person and delivers a speech in praise of herself. In doing so, she demonstrates the extent to which human behaviour is shaped by self-love, vanity, self-deception and social conventions.

The satire is directed against numerous groups, including scholars, princes, courtiers, members of religious orders, preachers and theologians. Erasmus is particularly critical of religious externals, empty scholarship and the misuse of ecclesiastical offices. The work is not, however, a simple attack on religion. Behind the mockery lies his conception of a Christianity that should be guided by personal piety, education and the example of Christ.

Erasmus criticised abuses in the Church but did not join the Reformation. He became involved in a public dispute with Martin Luther over the question of free will. His mediating position placed him between the confessional camps.

For the Netherlands, Erasmus provided an occasion that connects national origin with European intellectual history. His cross-border way of life, his Latin works and his impact in various countries also correspond to the European character of a euro circulation coin.