The permanent section "Women in Literature" for the Midwest Modern Language Association is seeking paper proposals for the 2026 convention. The MMLA convention theme is "After the Archive" and will be held in person 12-14 November 2026 in Chicago, IL.

"Rebellious Women" (Panel Theme)

Archives are based upon categories, the fundamental one being what is and what is not worth remembering. In literature, rebellious women are also categorized and tend to become exemplars (and are memorialized) or are erased. This panel seeks to complicate what is worth remembering by examining the silences and gaps in what tends to be categorized as “rebellious.” Of particular interest are women in literature who engage in quotidian acts of rebellion, figures who may be rebellious in some ways but traditional in others, and other examples that problematize what might qualify as a “rebellious woman.” Presentations will be 15-20 minutes in length.

For consideration, please submit a 200-250 word abstract along with a brief bio (including institutional affiliation) by April 25, 2026. Additional details regarding submission procedures will follow in accordance with MMLA guidelines. Please submit your proposal to Jeanette Goddard at goddardj@trine.edu.