Paths of Glory (The Simpsons)

Paths of Glory is the sixth episode of the twenty-seventh season of the American animated television series The Simpsons. It first aired on the Fox Broadcasting Company on December 6, 2015. The episode, written by Michael Ferris and directed by Steven Dean Moore, focuses on Lisa Simpson's efforts to restore the tarnished reputation of Springfield's first female inventor, while Bart Simpson joins the Boy Scouts-like group called "The Pre-Teen Braves" as part of a scheme.

Plot

The episode begins with Lisa discovering the forgotten achievements of Amelia Vanderbuckle, Springfield's first female inventor, during a school field trip to the Springfield Museum. Determined to bring Amelia's contributions to light, Lisa embarks on a quest to find one of Amelia's lost inventions. Meanwhile, Bart, seeking to avoid a test at school, joins the Pre-Teen Braves, a group that promotes outdoor activities and community service. However, his initial excitement fades as he realizes the group's activities are far from the adventurous exploits he had imagined.

As Lisa delves deeper into her research, she uncovers a series of clues leading to Amelia's hidden workshop. Inside, she finds a groundbreaking invention that could change the way people live. At the same time, Bart, in an effort to make the Pre-Teen Braves more appealing, inadvertently leads the group into a misadventure that puts them in danger. Both siblings face challenges that test their determination and resourcefulness.

Reception

"Paths of Glory" received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the episode for its focus on Lisa's intellectual pursuits and the light it sheds on historical female figures in science and technology. Others criticized it for its handling of Bart's storyline, feeling it fell into familiar patterns without offering new insights into his character.

Themes and Analysis

The episode explores themes of perseverance, the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in history, and the value of intellectual curiosity. Lisa's storyline serves as a commentary on the erasure of women from the historical and scientific narrative, while Bart's journey with the Pre-Teen Braves touches on themes of leadership, teamwork, and the consequences of irresponsible behavior.

Cultural References

"Paths of Glory" includes several cultural references, notably to the history of invention and the Boy Scouts. Lisa's investigation into Amelia Vanderbuckle's life mirrors the real-world efforts to acknowledge the overlooked achievements of female scientists and inventors.

Production

The episode's title is a reference to the 1957 Stanley Kubrick film Paths of Glory. The production team worked closely with historians and scientists to accurately portray the historical context of women's contributions to science and technology.

See Also

• List of The Simpsons episodes
• The Simpsons (season 27)