Instead of one famous work, here are some of Erasmus' writings that criticized the government and its officials:
* "The Praise of Folly" (1509): This satirical essay mocks many aspects of society, including the incompetence and corruption of government officials. While not directly attacking any specific government, it critiques the folly and greed often found in those who hold power.
* "Adages" (1500): This collection of proverbs and sayings often contained biting commentary on political and religious issues. Many of these proverbs subtly criticized the government's policies and the actions of its officials.
* "The Colloquies" (1518): This series of dialogues addressed various social and political issues, often through humorous scenarios and witty remarks. Some dialogues satirized the behavior of corrupt officials and the hypocrisy of those in power.
It's important to note that Erasmus' critiques were often subtle and veiled in humor. He preferred to use satire and wit rather than outright attacks, making his criticisms more palatable and effective in reaching a wider audience.
Therefore, while there's no single "famous thing" that Erasmus wrote making fun of the government, his writings collectively offered a powerful critique of political corruption and the flaws of those in power.