Narren

Narren is the plural form of Narr, the German term for a fool or jester. Historically, narrs were professional entertainers at medieval and early modern European courts, performing tricks, music, and satire. Today, the word also designates participants in the carnival traditions of German-speaking regions, who dress in masks and colorful costumes as part of Fasnacht, Fasching, or Karneval.

Etymology and imagery: The noun derives from Old High German nar, narr; related to other Germanic terms for fool. The figure is associated with the Narrenkappe (fools’ cap) and bells, a recognizable costume in German carnival. The jester persona is used to comment on politics and society through humor.

Historically, court jesters had a special license to critique rulers, speak truths under the protection of their role, and often used satire to advise or undermine. The symbol of the jester appeared in literature and theater; in German-speaking tradition, the character Hanswurst is a well-known folk fool.

In modern carnival culture, Narren organize in Narrenzünfte (fools’ guilds) that host parades, balls, and public performances; the season is marked by masked processions and community events, with exchanges of calls and jokes such as the Narrenruf. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who acts foolishly, or as a lighthearted insult within a carnival setting.