Mythology in Contemporary Culture

Popular Culture Association National Conference

April 5-9, 2023

San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter, San Antonio, Texas

The Mythology in Contemporary Culture area is dedicated to exploring mythological stories, figures and themes from all cultures and historical periods in all areas of popular culture. The frequent appearance of mythological motifs in popular culture speaks to the notion that mythologies, far from being relics of the past, continue to have significance. Contemporary revisionings and reinterpretations of mythological elements reflect the attitudes of current culture. Movies, television, computer games, comics, graphic novels, traditional literature, visual arts, performing arts, politics, blogs—the list goes on–-hold both explicit and implicit renderings of archetypes such as Thor and Athena and Kali, and of mythological narratives such as those found in bodies of sacred literature, classical Greek tragedies, and medieval Grail legends, to name only a few examples.

Proposals that pertain to the general theme of Mythology in Contemporary Culture are welcome. Potential presenters seeking inspiration for a paper topic might reflect on the mythological aspects of the Covid-19 pandemic or recent changes in governments around the world or about the many “-isms” that underlie discrimination of all kinds.

We will consider proposals for individual papers and/or panels organized around a theme. Sessions are 90 minutes, typically with four presenters per session.  Presentations should not exceed 15 minutes. 

All submissions must be made through the conference submission site http://conference. pcaaca.org. Potential presenters must be current, paid, members of the PCA to submit proposals for the conference.

For individual papers, please submit a title and 100-250 word abstract.  For themed paper sessions, each presenter should enter their own proposal; the chair should contact Dr. Rittenhouse with the title of the panel and the names of the presenters.

Questions about the Mythology in Contemporary Culture area may be directed to the Area Chairs:

Kate Rittenhouse  earth2k8@mac.com

Lol Fow  efow@bmcc.cuny.edu