Final answer:
The Praise of Folly is a humanistic work due to its criticism of human shortcomings, which reflects the values of the humanist movement in spotlighting human reason and potential for improvement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Praise of Folly by Desiderius Erasmus is considered a humanistic work because of its criticism of human shortcomings. Erasmus was part of the Christian humanism movement that emerged in Northern Europe, which sought to reconcile the study of classical texts and humanist ideals with Christian theology. His work uses satire to highlight and criticize the follies and moral weaknesses of mankind, including the corruption within the Church and the superstitions of the day. By emphasizing rationality and the need for moral reform, Erasmus reflects humanist values which prioritize human reason and the potential for goodness and improvement within all individuals.
Humanism is a philosophical stance that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, individually and collectively, and generally prefers critical thinking and evidence over acceptance of dogma or superstition. Within the context of The Praise of Folly, this philosophical stance manifests as a critique rather than a celebration of religious dogma or a rejection of classical ideas. Instead, Erasmus uses the humanistic approach to advocate for a focus on human rationale and ethics, which was a contrast to the dominant religious views of the time that emphasized humanity's sinful nature.