In light of President Trump's remarks on the cancellation of comedians Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert, the article delves into the historical context of comedy in ancient Rome and Greece. It discusses how comedians in these societies often faced harsh penalties for their jokes targeting those in power. By analyzing these historical figures and their struggles, the article draws parallels to the current climate of free speech and the challenges faced by comedians today. The piece emphasizes the importance of understanding these historical lessons as society navigates the complexities of humor and criticism in the modern era.