10 Funny Monty Python Monologues

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Monty Python, a comedy group, made their television sketch-show debut in 1969, with Monty Python’s Flying Circus. They brought a new type of comedy to the scene and helped change the industry forever. The British group became a worldwide phenomenon that developed into much more than a TV show; evolving into a variety of films, stage shows, albums, books, and musicals.

Monty Python’s comedy-style is still revered today and used as a tool for education in the acting/comedic world. The group’s sketches, scripts, and monologues are clever, hilarious, and can help showcase your comedic-genius. Keep reading below to find 10 of the best funny Monty Python monologues to start practicing now.

Monty Python crew old photo
Image source: Stuff You Should Know

Funny Monty Python Monologues from Monty Python’s Flying Circus

1. Stock Exchange Report Monologue

Stock Exchange Report Monologue: This monologue appears in the 1st episode of the TV show’s 3rd series. Eric Idle begins the Stock Exchange Report sketch in the episode with a clever and dry rendition of the News. But if this were really the way we saw the News, we would probably never stop watching. His British, intelligent, sense of humor takes center-stage during this scene.

This monologue is easy to perform since it doesn’t require much movement. In fact, its mockingly-serious nature makes this an ideal monologue for beginners wanting to hone in on their own, unique skills. It may be hard however to keep a straight face when reading this comedian’s version of the “Stock Market Report.”

2. Court Scene Monologue

Court Scene Monologue: Eric Idle may be one of the most well-known members of the Monty Python troupe and he seems to appear on the list more than any other actor. His hilarious monologues captivated audiences even from the very beginning. This monologue appears in the 3rd episode of the TV show’s 1st series.

In this scene, Idle plays Harold Larch, a man that becomes impassioned about his future; since he is about to be prosecuted by the Judge. In the monologue, Harold appeals to the judge in a desperate, hilarious attempt. Mimicking the desperation of orphan-boy Oliver, this monologue is a great addition to any portfolio.

3. Today in Parliament Monologue

Today in Parliament Monologue: This monologue is featured on “The Atilla the Hun Show,” which aired on the 2nd series, in the 7th episode. The episode is full of the classic Monty-Python-political comedy and has been a fan-favorite for years. It aired in 1970 and is among the top-rated among the entire series.

This sketch, in particular, is done by Eric Idle, in the news-reading style fans have all come to know and love. His job is to announce the current news in the British Parliament and does so in his usual, straight-forward, witty way. This monologue is wonderful for adding your own unique expressions and behaviors that represent your comedic-style.

Funny Monty Python Monologues from Monty Python and the Holy Grail

4. Michael Palin Monologue

Michael Palin Monologue: During this funny scene, Michael Palin (who plays a cleric) delivers a great, straight-forward speech in regards to the holy relic they have just required. He hilariously mocks the religious traditions associated with these relics, and his over-anxious voice makes it that much better. Much of the dry humor you see with Monty Python revolves around everyday subjects, like religion and politics.

Palin tells his fellow men what the holy book says in regards to the Holy Hand Grenade they just found, adding in modern, surreal bits about feasting upon cereal (and orangutans). Monty Python had a way of finding “the silly” out of even the most mundane and serious of situations. This monologue uses Monty Python’s genius of surrealism in the most hilarious ways.

5. The Tale of Sir Robin Monologue

The Tale of Sir Robin Monologue: If you’re looking for funny Monty Python monologues that you can really get crazy with, you should give this one a try. Instead of being like the others on the list, this monologue is actually in song-form; making it an ideal method for delivering optimal hilarity. It leaves room for all sorts of personal interpretation, improvisation, and fun.

In the film, a Minstrel begins telling (singing) the tale of Sir Robin. He adds in hilarious facts and adjectives, turning the serious song into about how truly stupid Sir Robin is. This monologue is truly meant to be performed over and over again, on any stage.

Monty Python members photo
Image source: Variety

6. Tim’s Warning Monologue

Tim’s Warning Monologue: Tim the Enchanter is played by John Cleese and his character is phenomenal. He is semi-self-conscious, interesting, and has one of the coolest accents ever. The way Cleese performs this monologue is key to its hilarity because Tim the Enchanter is ever-so-serious about his warning to the troop about the creature that awaits you.

One of the greatest funny Monty Python monologues wouldn’t be complete without the spectacular gestures Cleese performs to describe this scary creature, so if you want to practice this monologue, be sure to nail it. Many times, the key to Monty Python’s hilarity laid in their simplistic behavior and actions.

7. Professional Logician Monologue

Professional Logician Monologue: This monologue isn’t as well-known as some other scenes and parts in the film, because it actually appears in “The Holy Grail” album and not the film. John Cleese plays a Professor of Logic and delivers a sensational performance that is both intelligent and witty.

His monologue explains why the previous sketch was not logically correct. Cleese’s “educated” tone is purposely condescending and hilarious. His definition and explanations of logic will have audiences reeling. By the end of the monologue, the Professor has lost his train of thought and has ventured into a completely different, but funny, topic.

Funny Monty Python Monologues from Albums, Live Shows, and Other Films

8. A Minute Passed

A Minute Passed Monologue: This monologue is one of the most subtly funny Monty Python monologues out there. It is featured on the group’s comedy album, entitled “Monty Python’s Previous Record.” “A Minute Passed” appears as the 27th track and features the great Eric Idle.

As John Finlissom, Idle speaks in his most lovely voice to deliver a witty, clever monologue that gives listeners a surreal, calming, self-help, spoof moment. He talks about how quickly a minute can pass, and soon enough, a minute has passed. Mastering the sincerity in this monologue proves you are not only a natural comedian, but that you have respect for the classics as well.

9. Travel Agent

Travel Agent Monologue: The “Travel Agent” sketch may have made its initial appearance on Monty Python’s TV series, but it was lengthened for their live performance in 1982 at the Hollywood Bowl. The lengthened scene became popular among fans because many argued the extra length made it even funnier.

As part of the addition to the scene, you can find Eric Idle, a man found many times on the list, monologuing as Mr. Smoketoomuch. Mr. Smoketoomuch goes on an emotional rant that ruins the travel agent’s plans for selling the trip. This comedy sketch is straight-forward, loud, emotional, and hilarious to master.

10. The Meaning of Life

The Meaning of Life Monologue: “Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life” was a short, TV movie that aired in 1983. It was the last performance of all of the original castmates and it is centered around the group’s comedic take on life and every one of its unique stages. Gaston, played by Eric Idle, delivers audiences a great monologue that follows him outdoors.

He addresses the audience directly and speaks about the things his mother would tell him as a boy; about how beautiful and loving the world was. When he discovers his life and the world isn’t all the great (half-way through), he angrily swears and makes rude gestures. This monologue is sincerely and realistically funny.

Summing Up

These 10 funny Monty Python monologues are sure to not only keep your audience laughing, but also inspire you to keep growing your comedic skill. Whether you’re looking for something a little more serious, satirist or as silly as they come, there is an option here for everyone. Which Monty Python monologue is your favorite? How did our list match up? Which funny Monty Python monologues would you add to the list?

1 thought on “10 Funny Monty Python Monologues”

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