Elena Fratto

Elena Fratto's innovative methodologies enhance understanding of the intricate relationships between literature and various scientific disciplines. As an Assistant Professor of Slavic Languages and Literatures at Princeton University, she delves into the fascinating intersections of literature with science, particularly focusing on medicine, astronomy, and non-Euclidean geometries during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Her scholarly work is characterized by a deep exploration of how these scientific concepts are woven into the fabric of literary narratives. Fratto is the author of "Medical Storyworlds: Health, Illness, and Bodies in Russian and European Literature at the Turn of the Twentieth Century," published by Columbia University Press in 2021. This work examines the portrayal of health and illness in literature, offering insights into how these narratives reflect and influence societal perceptions of the body and medicine. Her research sheds light on the cultural and historical contexts that shape literary depictions of medical themes, contributing to a broader understanding of the interplay between literature and science. In addition to her monograph, Fratto has co-edited the special double issue "Russian Literature of the Anthropocene," published in June–July 2020. This work explores the evolving aesthetics and thematic concerns of Russian literature in response to environmental changes and challenges. Her interest in environmental humanities further enriches her research, as she investigates how literature responds to and reflects upon ecological issues. Fratto's academic pursuits extend to the study of Russian literature and its connections with music and the visual arts, as well as post-Soviet Kitsch aesthetics. Her interdisciplinary approach not only enhances the field of Slavic studies but also contributes to a broader dialogue on the intersections of art, science, and culture. Through her teaching and research, she inspires students and scholars alike to explore the dynamic interplay between literature and the scientific world.