From the moment the human race formed - and probably even before that - we have been crying, singing, painting, yelling, dancing, and, of course, laughing. As the years progressed and humans learned to perfect their various crafts, taking them from intrinsic parts of our nature to amazing talents worthy of praise, the particular art of comedy formed. From humorous “graffiti” etched into cave walls to court jesters to modern day stand up comedians it's clear that humor and comedy have withstood the test of time - and that not much separates us from our funny ancestors.
The earliest recorded joke originates from 1900 BC (about 3,921 years ago or almost 1.5 million days if you’re into that unit of measurement) from the Sumerian civilization - modern day southern Iraq - and goes like this: “Something which has never occurred since time immemorial; a young woman did not fart in her husband’s lap.” I find the implication that fart jokes were just as popular then as they are now funnier than the joke itself! Way to go to the Sumerians for taking time between all of that civilization forming to crack a few laughs with each other.
While still appreciating the art of comedy, the ancient Celtic people understood the danger a comedian possesses and wrote several laws to keep them in line and the public safe. The Celts were very open minded when it came to marriage - there were no laws against interracial, interclass, or homosexual marriages and women did not have to take their husbands names or give up any of their property - but comedians were NOT allowed to get married!
Satire was very well respected in ancient Ireland. It was thought to have great power, enough to physically injure the person at the butt of the jokes. As part of their original function, comedians were able to bring down kings with a witty enough insult. When a king was not doing right by his people, a bard would be hired to write a poem so scathing that it would physically raise welts on the king's skin to oust him (it was illegal for a “blemished” king to rule). Unwarranted satire, then, was a form of assault. So why couldn’t comedians get married? Simply because they were too dangerous to reproduce.
Today there are many famous (and married!) comedians who bless us with jokes and roasts when we need them most. From SNL to TikToks to the funny things we tell our friends and family, humor and laughter constantly help us destress from our daily lives and have for a very long time. So just remember, next time you feel a little bit down just go ahead and make that fart joke. Maybe 4,000 years from now someone will find it, laugh, and marvel at the timelessness of comedy.
By Sallie
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