Dear Fellow Forum Members:

I am posting the American Humor Studies
Association Call for Papers for this December's
MLA Conference in Philadelphia.  The call is also
available on the Association web page at:

http://americanhumor.org

Submissions should reach either Roxanne or
myself  by March 24, so that we can meet the MLA
deadline of April 1.  Please feel free to forward the
call or web address to anyone you think might be
interested.

CALL FOR PAPERS: AMERICAN HUMOR
STUDIES ASSOCIATION (AHSA) AT THE MODERN
LANGUAGE ASSOCIATION (MLA)
DECEMBER 2006

1) LAUGHING WITH THE NATION: HUMOR AND
ETHNICITY

    Just as various cultures have distinct
languages, traditions, and celebrations, so to can
humor be distinguished by national     styles and
ethnicities. AHSA invites critical submissions that
investigate elements of humor as they relate to
ethnicity. From     standup to street performance to
hip-hop, differing expressions of wit offer a
passport to a range of cultural discourses.

2) WHOLLY HOLY: THE INTERSECTION OF
HUMOR AND RELIGION

    One's spirituality is a serious consideration. But
there are always aspects of humor to be found
among every denomination,     if we apply our
minds and hearts to laughing at our own
imperfections. AHSA invites critical submissions
that explore     aspects of humor in religious
matters. Whether they be catechistic cartoons,
homiletic humor, or preacherly puns, humor
opens the spiritual doors of ecumenism, allowing
members of all faiths the sublime opportunity to
laugh together as one.


Proposals are due March 24 and should analyze
some facet of humor as it touches on religious or
ethnic considerations. Submissions should be
100-250 words and may be print or electronic.

E-mail submissions (preferred) may be sent to
Roxanne Schwab or Janice McIntire-Strasburg;
include the words "MLA call" in the subject line of
your e-mail.

Paper submissions may be sent to:

Janice McIntire-Strasburg
St. Louis University