Dr. Elena Benelli

Biography

Elena Benelli is a Teaching Professor and Honours Advisor at Concordia University, specializing in Contemporary Italian Literature, Migrant Literature, Migration Cinema, Italian Feminism, and Literary Theory. Her current research focuses on the representation of migrants and refugees in Italian documentaries, examining how these films challenge negative media portrayals of contemporary migrations. She sheds light on the new narratives and discourses emerging from these documentaries, emphasizing the importance of engaging with socio-political issues such as women's rights and ecological crises. Benelli's work highlights the complexity of migrant experiences in Italy, a nation that has increasingly become a destination for immigrants over the past two decades. Her teaching portfolio includes courses on Italian language and culture, often with a focus on multimedia and contemporary themes. She has been an active participant in various academic conferences, presenting on topics related to Italian film and migration.

Research Interests