Hektor Çiftja
University “A. Xhuvani,” Elbasan
(Paper presented at the scientific symposium “Language and National Identity,” November 12–13, 2024)
Since its inception and until the end of 1945, Albanian literature has largely fulfilled a utilitarian function—one that does not diminish its aesthetic and artistic qualities but complements them with broader social objectives. In this ongoing study, I propose the concept of a “sub-function” within utilitarianism, which is unique to Albanian literature of this period. This sub-function focuses on the creation of literature with an external purpose: demonstrating the expressive capacities of the Albanian language and enriching national literary expression. Such literary endeavors were driven, at times, by an urgent desire to establish literature in Albanian as an end in itself.
Following the tradition of the Albanian National Renaissance, literary production in the Albanian language was seen as part of a larger mission. The aim was not only to represent a nation with a distinct language and territory but to assert Albania’s presence within an elite cultural sphere. This primary mission sometimes led to a prioritization of ideological objectives over direct engagement with the audience.
The idea of this utilitarian sub-function provides a new lens through which we might interpret literary works from the independence period. Notably, Martin Camaj’s 1960s research introduced this concept as a framework for examining the literature of the period up to 1945. Building on his insights, my study seeks to add depth to our understanding of the utilitarian role that Albanian literature has played and how it has shaped the functional terminology within the field.
This research explores questions such as: Why was literature produced in Albania at this time, and who was the intended audience? To address these questions, I focus on the period from 1920 to 1944, a time during which a distinct “literariness” began to define Albanian literature. Some scholars argue that utilitarianism was prioritized over aesthetic values, despite the latter’s undeniable presence. Simplifying the question, we might ask: in an era when the written language had yet to solidify, when the class of literati was small, and literacy rates were low, who were these elite literary works really for? Consider the works in translation—Shakespearean tragedies, Don Quixote, and classical tragedies by Ethem Haxhiademi. Consider the poetic and prose contributions of Fishta, Konica, Poradeci, Kuteli, and Koliqi, and scholarly publications like Literary Year ‘43 and Arshi Pipa’s Kritika. Although these were productions in the native language, the readership did not justify the effort in terms of numbers or literary competency.
Another research question touches upon the unique qualities of Albanian literature: unlike other literatures, which drew heavily on Latin, Greek, or Roman models, Albanian literature preserved a “folkloric aroma” even as it embraced more cultivated forms.
Before we explore these questions further, let us consider the broader utilitarian aspect of Albanian literature. The utilitarian function in this context refers to literature’s role in providing not only aesthetic pleasure but also serving practical, educational, moral, patriotic, and social functions. To illustrate, here are six notable functions:
- Patriotic Function – Albanian literature aimed to inspire national pride, celebrating the homeland and its unique culture. For example, Naim Frashëri’s Bagëti e Bujqësi glorifies Albania’s landscapes and values.
- Moral and Didactic Function – Literature sought to impart ethical teachings. Tales and fables, such as those collected in Old Albanian Tales, conveyed moral lessons and life values.
- Historical Inspiration Function – Many works sought to preserve national memory by recounting historical events, as seen in Marin Barleti’s History of Skanderbeg, which emphasizes historical pride and inspires patriotism.
- Scientific and Informative Function – Some works aimed to educate the population, as exemplified by Sami Frashëri’s books, including Albania: What It Was, What It Is, and What It Will Be.
- Political and Social Function – Literature often raised awareness of political and social issues. Writers like Faik Konica and Migjeni addressed topics such as poverty and social injustice.
- Religious Function – Literature also served a religious purpose, promoting spiritual education and values. Early translations of religious texts by authors like Gjon Buzuku and Pjetër Budi helped disseminate religious teachings in the Albanian language.
These functions have not only shaped Albania’s literary tradition but have also played an instrumental role in the preservation of national identity and the education of generations.
At a previous conference, scholars identified a “poetic function” in Albanian literature as a means of documenting history. In this study, however, I propose adding the concept of a “literary function” to articulate my hypothesis: literature of this period was crafted as an endeavor to showcase the expressive potential of the Albanian language. Although no direct sources explicitly state this as a goal—reflecting an “intentional fallacy”—it seems plausible based on the progression from early writers like De Rada, Buzuku, and Bogdani to the authors of the 1920-1945 period. The frequent references from that time to “enriching national literature” suggest this intention. Thus, the utilitarian goal of refining the Albanian language for literary use contrasts with the approach of more hermetic poets, who distanced themselves from utilitarian motives in their treatment of language.
In closing, I propose that this implicit utilitarian characteristic in Albanian literature may have been aligned with the objectives of national education, preparing readers not only to consume literary works but also to value them as cultural heritage. Figures such as Noli, often referred to as “The Shepherd of the People,” and Fishta, known as “The National Poet,” were understood as spiritual leaders whose work resonated with the moral and patriotic ideals of the time. Similarly, Kuteli’s universal themes, when introduced as discourse to be read by the Albanian public, appear to address the entire nation with ideals of ethical and intellectual growth.
Thank you.
