Posted by Claire on July 08, 1997 at 20:38:32:

In reply to Re: "Folly" posted by Cassia on July 08, 1997 at 18:21:12

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] ] I have often read the word "folly" apparently alluding to a building of sorts. It seems to me to be a facade, or a sham, made in the likeness of some complicated architectural structure, but I don't know, and it has puzzled me for a long while. I would appreciate knowing, finally, just what is it. Please.
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] ] Claire

] Actually, in this case the word "folly" is descended fron a French word meaning "hidden". Depending on the period they could be elaborate (full scale miniature cottages) or simple (a gazebo, for example) structures meant to shelter people from the sudden summer showers or snowstorms. As they grew more elablorate some of them became whimsical or just ugly, so "follies" came to have a bad name.

] Cassia

Thanks. I had a whimsical notion that it was for quick shelter of sorts, but certainly unsure of the precise nature of, or reason for the structure. I appreciate your response.

Claire