Henry C. Jackson, Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia says members of Congress need to get themselves a copy of the Federalist Papers — and make sure they read it.

According to attendees, Scalia adopted a professorial, occasionally playful tone on Monday while addressing members of Congress and staff behind closed doors at an event organized by GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann and the Tea Party Caucus.

Scalia drew criticism ahead of the event for attending what was perceived as a partisan gathering. However, members of both parties say the event had more in common with a law school seminar than a pep rally.

Democratic Rep. Jan Schakowsky of Illinois, who attended, says Scalia implored lawmakers to study their role. She says he also said he does not view the Constitution as a living document.