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: Hardback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 30 September 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 book explores: How has Albanian literature and literary translation shaped social action throughout the longue durée of Albanian modernity?

To answer this inquiry, 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.

Through its meticulous exploration, Tirana Modern reveals how Albanian literature and literary translation have played a pivotal role in shaping social action throughout the history of Albanian modernity. It uncovers the ways in which literature has served as a powerful tool for imagining alternative futures, challenging dominant narratives, and promoting social change. The book also highlights the complexities and challenges associated with this process, such as the influence of political ideologies, cultural norms, and economic constraints on the production and dissemination of literature.

Moreover, Tirana Modern explores the role of literary translation in mediating the exchange of ideas and cultural expressions across borders. It examines how translators have navigated the complexities of cultural translation, preserving the essence of original works while adapting them to different audiences and contexts. The book also sheds light on the impact of globalization on the literary landscape of Albania, highlighting the ways in which international literary networks and platforms have influenced the production, distribution, and reception of Albanian literature.

In conclusion, Tirana Modern offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of the complex relationship between Albanian literature, literary translation, and social action. By drawing on a diverse range of sources and perspectives, the book provides a valuable contribution to the field of literary studies and offers valuable insights into the role of literature in shaping social reality.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780826504821