why is there not an expectation that coursework should be interesting and compelling for students?

As you said, you had the executive function of a teenage boy. The works still get taught because they are interesting and relevant. but it's hard to see that as a kid, as you're developing vocabulary and literacy and also lacking life experiences to relate.

Schools try to compromise by giving a list of choices and letting students choose from those on what is most interesting. But curriculums only flex so much.

Because analyzing themes and connecting it to history and sociology are important media literacy skills that high schoolers should be learning.

The parents, apparently.