Conversations about philosophy can lead to many interesting places. We had our own interesting journey here at EYC this month. After reading a couple books which looked into the nature of humanity, English teachers Carly Bussen and Jessica Eftink challenged Maddy A, (Sophomore) to research in more depth a philosopher who did the same. From the list they provided, Maddy decided to research 16th century Italian political philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli. In his book, The Prince, Machiavelli famously wrote that as a leader, ‘it is better to be feared than loved’ and ‘the ends justify the means.’
Maddy’s presentation discussed Machiavelli’s childhood, career, and important historical events he witnessed as part of her analysis for why his philosophies evolved the way they did. When she presented, she did a great job of using specific quotes from The Prince to justify her analysis and the narrative she was telling about Machiavelli.
“Maddy went above and beyond in her research and presentation on political philosophers,” said English teacher Carly Bussen. Her audience was very impressed with her work and her ability to effectively answer questions about the presentation afterward.
As she was working on her research, Maddy gave Machiavelli his own nickname, Lil Nicky. She also was fascinated with Machiavelli’s portrait, including his interesting hair choices. Calling Machiavelli ‘Nicky’ prompted Carly Bussen to begin humming Mickey by Toni Basil (“Hey Mickey, you’re so fine…”). So they put them together in their own little song about Machiavelli:
Hey Nicky, you’re so feared
You’re so feared, you have no beard
Hey Nicky, hey Nicky
Maddy’s presentation wasn’t finished before she gave one final rendition of her new song for her audience! If you now have this earworm stuck in your head, welcome to the club.