Navigating Nostalgia and Identity: The Psychological Impact of Racism on Women Living Abroad and the Healing Power of Italian Women's Literature

Abstract

This article explores the healing power of nostalgia in Italian women's literature and its possible and tangible profound impact on immigrant women. By examining works from renowned authors like Elsa Morante, Natalia Ginzburg, Anna Maria Ortese, Dacia Maraini, and Elena Ferrante, the study highlights how these narratives offer comfort, validation, and a sense of cultural connection. These stories, rich with reflections on personal and family histories, provide a deep exploration of identity, resilience, and the emotional complexities experienced by women dealing with cultural displacement. The article underscores how literature, imbued with nostalgic elements, can transform the immigrant experience, offering solace and fostering a deeper understanding of one's heritage and self.