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Fun fact: Franklin ends with a straight face — the joke lands because he never cracks a smile.
“Fart Proudly” Manuscript
Benjamin Franklin’s satirical jab at scientific vanity — and a plea for better-smelling breakthroughs.
Context
Written c. 1781, the essay teases learned societies while slyly defending bodily honesty.
Paper & Ink
Rag paper with iron‑gall ink; marginalia suggest it was read aloud for laughs.
Impact
Reprinted in pamphlets; later anthologized as a curiosity of Enlightenment humor.
Provenance
- Franklin circle copies (late 18th c.)
- Private library in Philadelphia, 1890s
- Museum donation, 2007