"Humour, Wit, & Satire of the Seventeenth Century" by John Ashton is a collection of humorous writings and illustrations from the 17th century, published in the late 19th century. The work explores the playful and satirical expressions of the time through jest-books, ballads, and anecdotes that reflect the social and political landscape of the era. This anthology serves as both a historical document and an entertaining insight into the comedic styles and cultural commentary of the period. The opening of this collection presents a preface outlining the author's intentions and the character of 17th-century humor, noting its distinction from contemporary sensibilities. It captures the essence of lively jests and tales, ranging from the folly of drunkenness to the cleverness of satire in social commentary. The excerpts include rhymes and anecdotes that display the wit and playfulness of the time, illustrating the diverse ways in which humor was utilized to entertain and critique society. Overall, this introduction sets the stage for a delightful exploration of historical jests that continue to provoke laughter and reflection today. (This is an automatically generated summary.)