Clarence H. Miller's translation of "The Praise of Folly", based on the definitive Latin text, seeks to echo Erasmus' own lively style while retaining the nuances of the original text. In his introduction, Miller places the work in the context of Erasmus as humanist and theologian.

First published in Paris in 1511, this book is full of humorous, occasionally pessimistic and sometimes cynical diatribes against mankind. The author's principal targets: the Roman Catholic Church, his fellow countrymen, the Dutch, and women.