Antonino Sorci

Please tell us about your research project.
My PhD dissertation focuses on the study of the Aristotelian tradition that gradually formed within the field of narratological studies. According to my hypothesis, narratologists have adopted a unitary view of narrativity that is mainly based on the valorization of the cathartic power of narratives. From there, I propose a critique of this conception, opposing it to a model of narrative interaction, based on a renewed reading of Nietzsche's The Birth of Tragedy, which underlines the subversive power of melancholy.
My research is currently moving in two different directions. First, I investigate the ideological reasons that led narratologists to adopt the Aristotelian paradigm. According to my hypothesis, this situation is not unrelated to the global spread of neoliberal ideology. Second, I explore the effects of Aristotelian and Nietzschean narratives on the structuring of social space. My hypothesis is that cathartic narratives could be useful in order to bring together a community of sympathizers around a charismatic leader, while melancholy narratives can promote the mobilization of individuals spontaneously, preventing the assertion of a personality on the others.

Could you please tell us a bit more about your scholarship/exchange programme?
My stay at the Maison Française d'Oxford is part of the mobility program of the Marc Bloch Center (Berlin) towards its strategic partners. This program aims to strengthen Franco-German and international scientific cooperation in SHS through exchanges and the establishment of joint projects between researchers from different scientific cultures.

First impressions of Oxford/the University?
Oxford is a wonderful city with an exceptional artistic, cultural and historical heritage. The Bodleian Library has a collection of works of immense value. The Maison Française d'Oxford is a friendly and active research centre, located in a quiet and green area. Definitely, the ideal place to develop my research projects.