Laughter Quote by Esther M. Friesner
““Suddenly the hall rang with Theseus’s laughter. He held his sides, threw back his head, and brayed. “Ah, Lady Helen, the gods have been more than good to you. The three Graces gave you a face to outshine the sun, then filled your lovely mouth with these bursts of comical nonsense. We should be grateful to them. It’s all that keeps us poor mortal men from mistaking you for a goddess.””
About This Quote
Source Short Story: “The Hall of Laughter” by Esther M. Friesner, 1995
The speaker mocks a woman's beauty, attributing it to divine gifts, while humorously warning that such charm prevents men from idolizing her as a goddess.
In simple terms: Beauty is a divine gift that keeps men grounded.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humor in flattery.
Themes
humor
flattery
beauty
divine
humanity
Mood
playful
sarcastic
Type
satirical
observational
When to use this quote
- courtship
- social gatherings
- celebrations
- artistic performances
Key Concepts
mythology
social dynamics
ego
perception
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever use humor to temper compliments?
- How does flattery affect self‑esteem?
A Different Perspective
The joke may reinforce superficial standards of beauty.
