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

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

I said of laughter, “It is mad,” and of pleasure, “What use is it?”

Big head, little wit.