Professor Elena Lombardi

Laurea Pavia, MA PhD New York
Professor of Italian Literature, Paget Toynbee Lecturer in Italian Medieval Studies, Fellow and Tutor in Italian, and Praefectus of Holywell Manor

Academic subject(s):

Modern Languages
  • Core subject area: Italian medieval literature 
  • Teaching: Italian Medieval Poetry and Dante. 
  • Research interests: Theories of language in the Middle Ages (with focus on syntax), medieval concepts of love and desire, medieval poetics, Dante, medieval ideas of the book, early modern intertextuality (with focus on the epic chivalric poem).

Departmental web page

In her role as Praefectus of Holywell Manor, she is Head and Academic Director of the Graduate Centre. Working in partnership with the students, she plays a leading role in the social and academic life of Balliol’s graduate community, initiating events and activities, and
offering advice and support as appropriate. She welcomes the opportunity to meet any graduate student for confidential advice, academic support, or signposting to relevant welfare resources. She is usually available by appointment at praefectus@​balliol.​ox.​ac.​uk