Meaning: This quote by Jerome K. Jerome humorously suggests that the quarrelsome nature of young men during the Middle Ages could be attributed to the lack of access to the soothing effects of smoking the weed, which is a reference to cannabis. Jerome K. Jerome was an English writer and humorist, best known for his comic novel "Three Men in a Boat." The quote is from his book "Idle Thoughts of an Idle Fellow," a collection of humorous essays published in 1886.

During the Middle Ages, societal norms and expectations for young men were often rigid and demanding. They were expected to adhere to codes of chivalry, engage in physical combat, and assert their masculinity in various ways. With the absence of modern-day recreational activities and stress-relief methods, young men of that era may have been more prone to quarrelsome behavior due to the lack of soothing or calming influences in their lives.

Jerome K. Jerome's use of humor in this quote serves to highlight the absurdity of attributing the behavior of young men in the Middle Ages to the absence of cannabis, a substance that was not commonly known or used in Europe during that historical period. By drawing attention to this unlikely cause, Jerome K. Jerome playfully satirizes the idea of attributing complex social behaviors to simplistic and improbable factors.

It is important to note that the quote should be interpreted in the context of Jerome K. Jerome's satirical and witty writing style. Rather than presenting a serious historical or sociological analysis, he employs humor and exaggeration to entertain his readers and offer a lighthearted commentary on human nature and historical periods.

In contemporary society, the quote can also be seen as a humorous commentary on the tendency to seek simplistic explanations for complex social phenomena. By attributing the behavior of young men in the Middle Ages to the absence of cannabis, Jerome K. Jerome pokes fun at the reductionist approach to understanding human behavior and societal dynamics.

Overall, Jerome K. Jerome's quote offers a humorous and thought-provoking perspective on the nature of young men during the Middle Ages, using exaggeration and wit to highlight the absurdity of attributing their behavior to the lack of a soothing weed. It serves as a reminder of the importance of considering historical contexts and societal influences when interpreting human behavior, while also showcasing the author's skill in using humor to engage and entertain his audience.