“Malet e Gjigantëve”: A Groundbreaking Translation

“Malet e Gjigantëve”:
A Groundbreaking Translation

By Andrew Smith

“Malet e Gjigantëve” (The Mountains of Giants), authored by the renowned American anthropologist Carleton S. Coon and masterfully translated into Albanian by Ambassador Mal Berisha, is a groundbreaking work that offers an unparalleled insight into the anthropological and cultural landscape of northern Albania in the early 20th century.

Historical Context and Significance

Coon’s expedition to Albania in 1929-1930 was a pioneering endeavor in the field of anthropology. During this time, he meticulously studied over 1,067 Albanians from ten different regions in the north, analyzing their physical characteristics, cultural nuances, religious practices, and demographic data. This comprehensive approach set a new standard for anthropological research, making “Malet e Gjigantëve” a seminal work in the study of Albanian ethnography and anthropology.

Content and Methodology

The book presents a detailed racial and cultural study of the Ghegs of Northern Albania. Coon’s methodology was remarkably thorough for its time, involving extensive fieldwork that spanned autumn, winter, spring, and summer of 1929-1930. His approach went beyond mere physical measurements, delving into the cultural fabric of the communities he studied.

Key Findings and Arguments

Coon’s work is particularly noteworthy for its focus on the Dinaric problem and the Illyrian-Dardanian presence in what he terms the “mountain fortresses” of Albania. He argues for the autochthonous nature of the Albanian race, tracing its roots to Illyrian-Dardanian origins. This perspective places Albanian ethnogenesis firmly within the European context, challenging prevailing narratives of the time.

Translation Quality and Significance

Ambassador Mal Berisha’s translation of “Malet e Gjigantëve” into Albanian is a testament to his scholarly acumen and deep understanding of both the source material and the cultural context. The high quality of the translation is evident in its ability to convey the nuanced anthropological concepts while maintaining the integrity of Coon’s original work. Berisha’s effort in bringing this crucial text to an Albanian-speaking audience cannot be overstated, as it fills a significant gap in Albanian anthropological literature.

Critical Reception and Contemporary Relevance

While Coon’s work has been subject to criticism in later years, particularly regarding his racial theories, “Malet e Gjigantëve” remains an invaluable resource for understanding the anthropological perspective of the early 20th century. It provides a unique snapshot of Albanian society at a critical juncture in its history, offering insights that continue to inform discussions on Albanian identity and cultural heritage.

Anthropological Techniques and Data Collection

Coon’s meticulous approach to data collection is evident throughout the book. His use of physical measurements, coupled with detailed observations of cultural practices, set a new standard for anthropological fieldwork. This comprehensive methodology allows readers to gain a multifaceted understanding of the communities studied.

Cultural and Historical Implications

The book’s focus on the Ghegs of Northern Albania sheds light on a region that was, at the time, relatively unknown to the wider academic community. Coon’s observations on the resilience and cultural continuity of these mountain communities provide valuable insights into the factors that have shaped Albanian identity over centuries.

Linguistic and Ethnographic Contributions

While primarily an anthropological work, “Malet e Gjigantëve” also makes significant contributions to the fields of linguistics and ethnography. Coon’s observations on dialects, customs, and social structures offer a rich tapestry of information for scholars across multiple disciplines.

Comparative Anthropology

Coon’s work in Albania can be seen as part of a broader trend in early 20th-century anthropology that sought to document and classify human diversity. When viewed in this context, “Malet e Gjigantëve” provides an interesting point of comparison with similar studies conducted in other parts of the world during the same period.

Legacy and Impact

The translation and publication of “Malet e Gjigantëve” in Albanian represents a significant moment in the country’s intellectual history. It brings to light a crucial piece of research that had been largely inaccessible to Albanian scholars and the general public for decades. The book’s release has sparked renewed interest in early anthropological studies of Albania and has contributed to ongoing discussions about Albanian identity and heritage.

“Malet e Gjigantëve” stands as a monumental work

“Malet e Gjigantëve” stands as a monumental work in the field of Albanian anthropology. Despite the controversies surrounding some of Coon’s later theories, this book remains an invaluable resource for understanding the anthropological landscape of northern Albania in the early 20th century. Ambassador Mal Berisha’s high-quality translation has made this crucial text accessible to a new generation of Albanian readers and scholars, ensuring its continued relevance in discussions of Albanian history, culture, and identity.

The book’s publication in Albanian is not merely an academic exercise but a cultural event of significant importance. It bridges a gap in Albania’s anthropological literature and provides a foundation for future research and debate. As such, “Malet e Gjigantëve” is essential reading for anyone interested in Albanian studies, anthropology, or the complex interplay of culture, history, and identity in the Balkans.

Source: https://thegalwayreview.com/2025/01/02/malet-e-gjiganteve-a-groundbreaking-translation/