Tirana Modern: Biblio-Ethnography on the Margins of Europe

Tirana Modern explores how Albanian literature and literary translation have shaped social action during the longue durée of Albanian modernity. It does this by examining the public culture of reading in modern Albania through an ethnographic lens.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2022
Publisher: Vanderbilt University Press

Tirana Modern, guided by the thesis that literature can transform social reality, delves into the examination of the public culture of reading in modern Albania. Formulated as a central question, the topic of the book revolves around: How has Albanian literature and literary translation shaped social action throughout the longue durée of Albanian modernity?

To explore this compelling topic, Tirana Modern relies on a rich tapestry of ethnographic and historical material sourced from the independent Albanian publisher, Pika pa sipërfaqe (“Point without Surface”). This ethnography offers a meticulously detailed account of literary culture in Albania, shedding light on the broader interplay between social imagination and social reality as mediated by reading and literature.

Within the pages of Tirana Modern, readers are taken on a captivating journey through the vibrant landscapes of contemporary Albanian society. The book meticulously weaves together a tapestry of personal narratives, interviews, and observations, providing a profound and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that shape the literary landscape. Through its lens, readers gain a deep appreciation for the role that literature plays in shaping social consciousness, fostering empathy, and challenging dominant narratives.

One of the key themes that emerge from Tirana Modern is the profound impact of historical events on the development of Albanian literature and literary translation. The book explores how the political, social, and cultural upheavals of the 20th century, including the communist regime, the civil war, and the post-communist transition, have shaped the literary landscape and influenced the themes and styles of Albanian writing. The authors argue that literature has served as a powerful tool for documenting and interpreting the experiences of the Albanian people, providing a means of resistance and resilience in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, Tirana Modern delves into the complex relationship between Albanian literature and literary translation. The book examines how translators have navigated the challenges of translating Albanian literature into other languages, including English, French, and German. It explores the strategies employed by translators to preserve the cultural and linguistic nuances of Albanian writing while also making it accessible to a broader international audience. The authors argue that literary translation plays a crucial role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding between different societies, and in contributing to the global dialogue on social and political issues.

In conclusion, Tirana Modern is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the role of literature in shaping social action in modern Albania. Through its meticulous exploration of ethnographic and historical material, the book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that underpin the public culture of reading in this vibrant and dynamic country. By highlighting the profound impact of historical events, the relationship between Albanian literature and literary translation, and the power of literature to foster social imagination and challenge dominant narratives, Tirana Modern makes a significant contribution to the field of literary studies and beyond.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780826504814