The word ‘jester’ is often synonymous with medieval European court entertainers donning floppy, bell-adorned hats. But, as this short from TED-Ed reveals, the concept of a jokester or performer with some licence to challenge rulers and the nobility spans both centuries and the globe, with the earliest known instance occurring in China in the 7th century BCE. With an appropriately waggish animation style, the video introduces viewers to some notable historical jesters from around the world while exploring the many roles, responsibilities and degrees of influence they possessed.
Meet the jesters who’ve spoken truth to power around the globe and across centuries
18 October 2023
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