Teens defend Monty Python ‘silly walk’ at Greek anti-fascism parade

British comedian John Cleese does the “silly walk” during a sketch titled “The Ministry of Silly Walks” by British comedy troupe Monty Python. Image: Facebook.com/MontyPython

A Monty Python-inspired “silly walk” during Greece’s solemn remembrance of anti-fascist resistance in World War II has sparked anger, with the teens responsible saying it was a stand against militarism.

The 10 girls said they were pretending to be insubordinate soldiers at an Oct. 28 parade in Athens, in a stunt inspired by the cult British comedy troupe.

In a statement published Wednesday in daily newspaper Efsyn, they said it was inspired by “the great field-marshal of English comedy John Cleese and by all that is taught by Monty Python.”

“The Ministry of Silly Walks” is a 1970 classic skit by Monty Python, including Cleese, skewering stiff-necked bureaucracy and self-important inefficiency.

The local mayor had earlier termed the girls’ move “pathetic.” He said it “insulted the memory of those slain” in October 1940 when Greece repulsed an invasion by fascist Italy against overwhelming odds.

Events commemorating Greece’s wartime resistance to Axis powers Italy and Germany are a solemn affair, and public statements on the issue are closely scrutinized every year for errors.

Among those criticized this year was Education Minister Niki Kerameus, who hailed Greece’s struggle “on the eve of World War II.” The conflict in Europe actually began in September 1939. IB/JB

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