If you were born in the early 2000s, trolling for you probably means stirring the pot on social platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram. But what you might not know is that 'troll' got its start in the late '80s when some users started to mess with others on online bulletin boards to cause chaos.
These days, thanks to social media, trolling has become a widespread phenomenon. However, it's not that people suddenly have this urge to provoke strangers. This phenomenon dates back centuries.
Long before the internet, history was peppered with individuals who could be considered the biggest trolls of their time. These individuals used wit, provocative actions, and satirical writings to shake societal norms and pester others.
So without further ado, let's dive into the list of the 10 biggest trolls before social media came along:
1. Diogenes of Sinope
Diogenes was an ancient Greek philosopher, born in 412 BC. He was infamous for his extreme behavior and stinging criticisms.
As a founder of Cynicism, he believed in living a life of virtue in agreement with nature. The problem was that he showcased this through some pretty agitating actions.
Known for his outrageous behavior, he would urinate on people who insulted him and make obscene gestures at anyone who tried to reason with him. Regarding his public indecency, he remarked, "If only it were as easy to banish hunger by rubbing my belly."
One famous instance involved him carrying a lamp in daylight, claiming to search for an honest man. His confrontations with figures like Plato and Alexander the Great were legendary, often leaving his targets flustered and the public entertained.
He once told Alexander the Great, "Stand out of my sunlight," when the king asked if he could do something for him.
2. Voltaire
Voltaire, a French writer and philosopher, was a master of satire. His work "Candide" teems with biting critiques of the Catholic Church, the French monarchy, and the society of his time.
In his "Philosophical Dictionary," he wrote, "Every sensible man, every honorable man, must hold the Christian sect in horror." This bold statement was a direct affront to the religious establishment.
His sharp tongue and seething commentary often landed him in trouble, including imprisonment and exile. Yet, his provocations sparked conversations and debates that influenced the Enlightenment. One of his famous quotes, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it," epitomizes his provocative stance on free speech.
3. Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde, the Irish playwright and poet, was renowned for his flamboyant personality. He used his plays and essays to poke fun at Victorian society, often highlighting its hypocrisies and absurdities.
Works like "The Importance of Being Earnest" and his public persona made him a celebrated, yet controversial, figure. Wilde's provocations extended to his personal life, leading to a notorious trial and imprisonment.
He famously criticized the Marquess of Queensberry, who had accused him of homosexuality. During his trial, Wilde responded to a question about his love for young men by saying, "The 'Love that dare not speak its name' in this century is such a great affection of an elder for a younger man… There is nothing unnatural about it." His defense was a critique of societal norms and a confrontation with his accuser.
4. Mark Twain
Mark Twain needs no introduction. A stellar author and humorist, Twain observed society and politics from close quarters. His works, such as "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and "The Innocents Abroad," criticized everything from racism to religious hypocrisy.
He aimed sharp barbs at politicians through his public speeches and writings. In "The Gilded Age," he described politicians as, "a distinct criminal class." His works frequently contained direct criticisms that challenged the integrity of public figures.
Twain's famous remark, "The only difference between a tax man and a taxidermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin," highlights his sharp critique of government practices.
5. Dorothy Parker
Dorothy Parker was an American poet, writer, and critic, famous for her acerbic wit and sharp-tongued reviews. As a member of the Algonquin Round Table, Parker's commentary spared no one, from celebrities to politicians.
Her short stories and poetry contained biting critiques, cementing her reputation as one of the biggest trolls before social media. Parker's quote, "If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to," is a perfect example of her sharp wit.
She once reviewed a book by Katharine Hepburn with the line, "She runs the gamut of emotions from A to B." This cutting remark became one of her most famous quips, showcasing her ability to deliver sharp, personal critiques.
6. Jonathan Swift
Jonathan Swift, the author of "Gulliver's Travels" and "A Modest Proposal," was a master satirist. His works brimmed with scathing critiques of politics, religion, and human nature.
In "A Modest Proposal," Swift attacked British policy towards the Irish by suggesting that the needy could ease their economic troubles by selling their children as food to the rich. His use of extreme examples to make his point provoked society and highlighted the absurdity of the existing policies.
7. Niccolò Machiavelli
Niccolò Machiavelli is known to this day for his seminal work, "The Prince". An Italian Renaissance political philosopher, his book offered ruthless advice to politicians. His ideas were often seen as cynical and manipulative. In "The Prince," he stated, "The ends justify the means," encouraging rulers to use any tactics necessary to maintain power.
His famous quote, "It is better to be feared than loved, if you cannot be both," captures his provocative philosophy. Modern-day thinkers like Robert Greene often pay homage to Machiavelli for his insights into power dynamics and political strategy.
8. H.L. Mencken
H.L. Mencken, an American journalist and critic, gained recognition for his satirical and often biting commentary on American life and politics. Mencken's unapologetic views made him a controversial figure. He once said, "Democracy is the art and science of running the circus from the monkey cage," a quote that encapsulates his critical view of politics.
In another of his quotes, he remarked, "As democracy is perfected, the office of president represents, more and more closely, the inner soul of the people. On some great and glorious day, the plain folks of the land will reach their heart's desire at last, and the White House will be adorned by a downright moron." This harsh critique of the electorate and political leaders was characteristic of his style.
9. Lenny Bruce
Lenny Bruce was a stand-up comedian, who pushed the boundaries of free speech and was often arrested for his provocative material. His performances challenged societal norms around taboo topics, provoking strong reactions from his audiences and authority.
Bruce also routinely attacked venerable figures. He once said, "If Jesus had been killed twenty years ago, Catholic school children would be wearing little electric chairs around their necks instead of crosses."
10. Mae West
Mae West, an American actress and playwright, gained fame for her bawdy double entendres and bold performances. Her risqué remarks made her a controversial figure in Hollywood. West's famous line, "When I'm good, I'm very good, but when I'm bad, I'm better," exemplifies her cheeky and provocative style.
West often used her performances to throw barbs at prevailing norms. In response to critics of her risqué performances, she famously said, "Those who are easily shocked should be shocked more often." This challenged her detractors and epitomized her trolling style.
Conclusion
While these historical figures employed tactics that might resemble modern trolling, their intent and impact were far more profound. They used their sharp wits and daring antics to shine a light on the big issues of their times.
Long before anyone could post their thoughts to the world, these intellectuals and entertainers utilized the platforms of their day to initiate conversations and influence political landscapes. Their legacies demonstrate the enduring power of critical discourse in driving social change.
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