Here's a breakdown of its origins:
* Old English: The word "jest" has been around for centuries, appearing in Old English as "gest" with similar meanings.
* Medieval Period: The phrase itself likely gained prominence in the Medieval period, where it was commonly used to express disbelief or amusement.
* Shakespeare: William Shakespeare, a master of language, popularized the phrase in several of his works. For instance, in *The Merry Wives of Windsor*, Falstaff uses it: "Surely, you jest!"
* Modern Usage: Over time, the phrase became a common idiom, often used to express disbelief, amusement, or even disbelief mixed with a touch of indignation.
It's worth noting that the phrase's origin is not specifically tied to any one historical event or person. Its popularity and widespread use simply reflect its natural expression of a common human response to the absurd or unbelievable.