“The Mountains of Giants” – A Masterful Translation in Style and Linguistic Approach
“The Mountains of Giants”
– A Masterful Translation in Style and Linguistic Approach
By Ndrek Gjini
“The Mountains of Giants”, authored by Carleton S. Coon, is one of the most unique and valuable works for studying the Gegs of Northern Albania’s Highlands.
This book, a profound racial and cultural study, was originally published in English in 1950 as part of the Peabody Museum series of Harvard University. However, it was unjustly denied to the Albanian public for more than 70 years.
With dedication and a high standard of translation, Ambassador Mal Berisha has brought this work to the Albanian language, preserving the essence, structure, and scientific authenticity of the book.
I feel fortunate that Ambassador Mal Berisha invited me to be part of this significant project, entrusting me with the role of editor for this book.
Content and Scientific Value of the Book
The book contains in-depth studies of the social structures, family organization, marriage systems, and traditional rituals of the Gegs of the Northern Highlands. Carleton Coon provides detailed anthropometric analysis, including body measurements of over 1,000 individuals, linking them to the natural environment, customs, and cultural influences.
One of the book’s key themes is the unique phenotype of the Highland Gegs, characterized by elements reflecting Illyrian and Dinaric continuity. Coon examines the genetic and cultural influences that have helped preserve these traits over centuries, despite geographical isolation and historical challenges.
Mal Berisha’s Masterful Translation
Ambassador Mal Berisha’s masterful translation is a work of art in its own right. As a native of the Gjakova Highlands, he approached the translation with passion and thorough scientific rigor, interpreting and describing the original material with precision.
Berisha has preserved not only the book’s scientific core but also its cultural and linguistic sensitivity. His translation is rich in detail, ensuring that anthropological terms and concepts are accessible to Albanian readers. Notably, the original tables and illustrations are included in the Albanian edition, offering scholars a rare opportunity to examine the full scope of this study.
In his preface, Berisha shares his personal motivations for undertaking this translation. He emphasizes his role as an advocate for Albanian culture and tradition, providing Albanian readers with a window into understanding and appreciating their heritage.
The Historical and Cultural Contribution of Coon and Berisha
Dr. Carleton S. Coon was the first anthropologist to conduct such an extensive and detailed study of the Gegs of Northern Albania. He spent months in the field during 1929–1930, studying the daily lives, body measurements, and traditions of the Gegs.
On the other hand, Mal Berisha has revived this work for Albanian readers at a time when the need to value and preserve our national heritage is greater than ever. His work contributes to strengthening the Albanian cultural identity and promoting it on the international stage.
Language Style and Approach
One of the strengths of the translation is the clarity and fluency of the Albanian language Berisha employs. He has managed to balance technical terminology with an accessible style, making complex scientific concepts understandable to a broader audience.
Additionally, Berisha maintains a respectful tone toward the Albanian people and their culture, emphasizing the unique values that Coon uncovered and documented in this study. He has also added detailed notes to help Albanian readers understand the context of the original work.
A Legacy to Be Treasured
“The Mountains of Giants” is more than a scientific book; it is a document that captures the essence of Albanian culture during a specific historical period. This publication, brought to life in Albanian thanks to Mal Berisha’s tireless efforts, is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the roots of our national identity.
This book serves as a bridge between the past and the future, between preserved traditions and the modern world. Thanks to Coon and Berisha, “The Mountains of Giants” remains a powerful testament to the richness of our cultural heritage and a shining example in the scientific study of Albanian culture and the Illyrian-Dardanian origins of the Gegs.
