Some things are privileged from jest—namely, religion, matters of state, great persons, all men’s present business of importance, and any case that deserves pity.

Laughter almost ever cometh of things most disproportioned to ourselves and nature. Laughter hath only a scornful tickling.

A difference of taste in jokes is a great strain on the affections.

Jests and scoffs do lessen majesty and greatness and should be far from great personages and men of wisdom.

Jesters do oft prove prophets.