Purim spiels: Skits and satire have brought merriment to an ancient Jewish holiday
Purim, the springtime Jewish holiday packed with much merriment and humor, recalls the biblical story of Queen Esther.
In this tale, the queen stayed true to her Jewish roots and used her status to sway her husband, King Achashverosh, to defend the Jews against the sinister plans of Haman, the king’s adviser, who had plotted to wipe them out.
In commemoration, Jews participate in yearly communal readings of the Scroll of Esther, which is part of the Hebrew Bible canon, engage in gift-giving and host large meals.