Ebrietatis Encomium: or, the Praise of Drunkenness

"Ebrietatis Encomium" by Albert-Henri de Sallengre is a satirical treatise on the merits of drunkenness, likely written in the early 18th century. The work discusses the necessity and advantages of getting drunk, arguing that it can drive away sorrow, enhance conviviality, and even be beneficial to one's health. The author adopts a humorous yet serious tone, alluding to a range of historical and philosophical figures to reinforce his perspective on the social and personal benefits of intoxication. The opening of the work introduces the author's intention to defend the practice of getting drunk against common criticisms. He engages with various philosophical and cultural references, including the doctrines of ancient sages, while dismissing the negative views on drunkenness as overly austere. He cites numerous examples from history, suggesting that even celebrated figures such as Cato and notable churchmen enjoyed drinking, positioning drunkenness as an ingrained facet of human experience worthy of commendation. Through witty arguments, Sallengre sets the stage for a more detailed exploration of these themes in the chapters that follow.