Satirist Gives MKA Students a Masterclass in the History of Satire

MKA Upper School juniors and seniors recently enjoyed a very special evening lecture when satirist, comedic star and author Stephen Colbert addressed them on the history and role of political satire in society.

Using examples as varied as Jonathan Swift, Will Rogers and Peter Cook, Colbert discussed the satirist's need to find "the game" - a humorous new way to highlight a particular element of society, or a new take on a point of view - that will appeal to some part of the general population.  Students, drawn from history and English electives including Political Theory and Satire, were then able to ask Colbert questions ranging from "Is anything off limits for your satire?" (answer: Yes, personal tragedy) to "Do you and Jon Stewart exchange notes on what's going to be covered in your shows each night?" (answer: Not any more), before enjoying some lighter-hearted entertainment as they got headshots signed.