The 'My Ancestor :)' meme typically features a contrast between a modern-day individual—often represented by a Wojak or Soyjak character—and a heroic or legendary figure from their ancestral past. Usually depicted with the modern person looking up at a portrait or statue, the meme explores themes of lineage, irony, and the perceived decline of modern society. It first gained traction on imageboards as a way to mock contemporary habits compared to the perceived strength or virtue of previous generations. Over time, it has evolved into a versatile template used for everything from nationalistic pride to self-deprecating humor about one's own mundane lifestyle compared to the epic lives of those who came before.