Ridiculous History: CLASSIC — Roland the Farter and the Weird World of Professional Flatulence

Episode Release Date: April 10, 2025

In this entertaining and thoroughly researched episode of Ridiculous History, hosts Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown explore the quirky and often overlooked profession of professional flatulists throughout history. From medieval jesters to modern-day performers, the episode delves into how flatulence transcended mere bodily function to become an art form cherished in various cultures.

1. The Universality of Flatulence

[00:00] Ben Bowlin:
"Fellow ridiculous historians, you have statistically farted about five to 10 minutes before you tuned in and tuned in. Tuned it in. Yeah, there he is."

The episode opens with Ben and Noel establishing the fundamental truth that flatulence is a universal human experience, setting the stage for a deeper exploration into its historical significance.

2. Farting as a Profession in Medieval Times

[05:15] Ben Bowlin:
"Travel with us, folks, to the reign of King Henry II."

Ben takes listeners back to the medieval era, specifically the reign of King Henry II of England (1154-1189), uncovering the existence of Roland the Farter, a court jester known for his unique talents.

[06:39] Noel Brown:
"The word that it actually is is flatulist. The word I always think it is when I see it on paper is flautist."

Noel explains the term "flatulist", distinguishing it from similar sounding professions and highlighting the specialized skills required to perform as a professional farter.

3. Roland the Farter: Skills and Recognition

[09:09] Noel Brown:
"The English Liber Feodorum, which translates roughly to the Book of Fees... executed simultaneously."

The hosts discuss Roland the Farter's documented performances, which included a simultaneous jump, whistle, and fart, performed annually during Christmas celebrations. His unique act earned him substantial rewards, including land and a manor house in Suffolk.

[11:15] Noel Brown:
"He was awarded with lands and an estate, right?"

Ben and Noel emphasize the societal acceptance and appreciation of flatulists in medieval courts, illustrating how Roland's performances were not only tolerated but celebrated.

4. Artistic Flatulists Across Cultures

[12:17] Noel Brown:
"I've seen like these Japanese woodcut prints... explosive fart lines."

The conversation broadens to include Japanese woodcut art, where flatulence was depicted both satirically and as a whimsical battle weapon, showcasing the diverse cultural interpretations of farting.

[13:12] Noel Brown:
"Le Petomain, AKA Joseph Pujol... he could actually do this with air."

Transitioning to the 19th century, the hosts introduce Joseph Pujol, famously known as Le Pétomane, a French flatulist who brought the art to international fame with his controlled and melodious performances.

5. Le Pétomane: The Master Flatulist

[15:14] Ben Bowlin:
"He found that he could deliberately suck water in through this area of his body and then project it back out."

Le Pétomane's extraordinary ability to control his flatulence allowed him to perform complex acts, including playing melodies and blowing out candles, captivating audiences worldwide.

[19:55] Ben Bowlin:
"He parlayed that first performance into a pretty lucrative contract at the famous Moulin Rouge."

His association with the Moulin Rouge highlights the peak of his career, where his performances not only entertained but also became a lucrative profession, earning him the title of one of France's highest-paid entertainers of his time.

6. The Decline and Legacy of Professional Flatulists

[31:58] Noel Brown:
"World War one occurs in 1914... he reopens a bakery."

The advent of World War I marked the decline of Le Pétomane's career, leading him to return to his roots as a baker. Despite his retirement, his legacy endured, influencing future generations of flatulists.

[37:16] Ben Bowlin:
"Mr. Methane... carrying on the torch of past heroes like Roland the Farter and La Petomain."

The episode concludes by highlighting Mr. Methane, a modern flatulist who continues the tradition with contemporary flair, proving that the art form still holds a niche but passionate following today.

7. The World's Oldest Joke

[37:16] Ben Bowlin:
"The world's oldest joke... A young woman did not fart in her husband's lap."

In a delightful nod to history, the hosts reveal that the world's oldest recorded joke, dating back to 1900 BCE Sumeria, is a fart joke, underscoring the timeless humor associated with flatulence.

8. The Science and Social Aspects of Farts

[39:10] Noel Brown:
"We're all in this together."

Ben and Noel wrap up the episode by discussing the biological and social facets of farting, emphasizing its role as a natural equalizer and a reminder of human mortality. They debunk the stigma around flatulence, presenting it as both a medical necessity and a source of humor.

[40:19] Ben Bowlin:
"About 75% of your farts are created in your lower intestine, not by you."

This scientific insight explains why even professional flatulists manage to control their emissions without the typical odor, attributing it to the mechanics of flatulence production.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Bowlin [05:15]:
  "Travel with us, folks, to the reign of King Henry II."

• Noel Brown [06:39]:
  "The word that it actually is is flatulist. The word I always think it is when I see it on paper is flautist."

• Noel Brown [09:09]:
  "The English Liber Feodorum, which translates roughly to the Book of Fees... executed simultaneously."

• Ben Bowlin [19:55]:
  "He parlayed that first performance into a pretty lucrative contract at the famous Moulin Rouge."

• Ben Bowlin [37:16]:
  "Mr. Methane... carrying on the torch of past heroes like Roland the Farter and La Petomain."

• Ben Bowlin [39:10]:
  "About 75% of your farts are created in your lower intestine, not by you."

Conclusion:

This episode of Ridiculous History masterfully blends humor with historical facts, shedding light on the fascinating world of professional flatulence. Through engaging storytelling and insightful analysis, Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown not only entertain but also educate listeners on how what many consider a trivial bodily function has played a unique role in human history and culture.

For more quirky historical tales, tune into Ridiculous History on iHeartRadio.