They poke fun at everyone, both the high and the low. End quote. Well, these texts provide the earliest recorded use of red herring in English, as well as rare forms of medieval literature and a killer rabbit reminiscent of Monty Python. They offer a glimpse into the comedic culture of time, poking fun at people from all walks of life. The texts were often performed live by minstrels who entertained audiences at fairs and taverns and baronial halls