Literature and film are filled with characters whose choices shape worlds, inspire audiences, and sometimes make no sense at all. This session takes a playful yet insightful approach to the conference theme of Palimpsests: Memory and Oblivion by examining how cultural memory preserves, distorts, or over-glorifies certain fictional figures. Through witty critiques and audience participation, we’ll interrogate why some characters remain revered despite glaring flaws while others are unfairly forgotten or misunderstood. What does our collective memory choose to retain, and what are we rewriting with each new adaptation, retelling, or reinterpretation?

This session is also a recognition of the importance of humor in academia. Conferences can be intellectually demanding, and incorporating humor into discussions fosters a more engaging, inclusive, and dynamic environment. Playful critique is a powerful tool—it invites fresh perspectives, encourages critical thinking without intimidation, and reminds us that literary and cinematic analysis doesn’t always have to be serious to be meaningful. By mixing scholarly insight with comedic roasting, this session offers attendees an entertaining yet thought-provoking way to engage with storytelling, memory, and the evolving legacy of beloved (or overhyped) characters. Audience participation is encouraged—because no protagonist is safe!

Conference Information: 

Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Associationhttps://www.pamla.org/