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

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

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.

Big head, little wit.

Laughter always arises from a gaiety of disposition, absolutely incompatible with contempt and indignation.