Instant Classics A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (or did it?)
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Dec 11, 2025 What made the ancient Romans laugh? Discover the surviving Roman jokes that challenge our perceptions of their society. From the irreverent humor in Seneca’s works to themes of identity and inheritance, the discussion reveals the complexities behind their jokes. Examples from the Philogelos showcase a surprising range of topics—from bodily humor to regional stereotypes. The hosts even delve into why some ancient gags still resonate with us today, culminating in a memorable reveal of a favorite joke. Will it get a laugh?
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Surviving Fragments Reveal Roman Laughs
- Roman humour survives in odd fragments like graffiti, papyri and a joke-book called Philogelos.
- These leftovers let us glimpse everyday voices outside elite literature.
A Short Roman Street Joke
- Mary tells a short street joke about a man declared dead by rumor who is alive and offended at the rumor-teller's reliability.
- She says she can deliver it to modern audiences and get laughs after practicing timing.
Imperial Wit: Humble And Controlling
- Emperors used humour to appear down-to-earth and to show power at the same time.
- Vespasian's and Augustus's anecdotes show wit could be self-deprecating or humiliatingly political.
