Historical Dictionary of Albania
By (author) Robert Elsie
Publication date:
19 March 2010Length of book:
662 pagesPublisher
Scarecrow PressISBN-13: 9780810861886
Albania is not well known by outsiders; it was deliberately closed to the outside world during the communist era. Now it has thankfully become free again, its borders are open and it can be visited, and it is increasingly integrating with the rest of Europe and beyond. Unfortunately, Albania has had its share of problems in the post-communist era; it's a land of destitution and despair, thanks in part to the Albanian mafia, which has turned the country into one of blood-feuds, kalashnikovs, and eternal crises. Yet, Albania is, in essence, a European nation like any other and will soon, it is to be hoped, advance and take its proper place in Europe and the world.
The second edition of the Historical Dictionary of Albania relates the history of this little-known country through a detailed chronology, an introduction, a bibliography, appendixes, and over 700 cross-referenced dictionary entries on significant persons, places, and events; institutions and organizations; and political, economic, social, cultural, and religious facets.
The second edition of the Historical Dictionary of Albania relates the history of this little-known country through a detailed chronology, an introduction, a bibliography, appendixes, and over 700 cross-referenced dictionary entries on significant persons, places, and events; institutions and organizations; and political, economic, social, cultural, and religious facets.
'The poorest and most underdeveloped country in Europe,' according to the author, Albania is a mystery to most of us, reason enough to give this title serious consideration. This book represents Albania's third appearance in Scarecrow's 'Historical Dictionaries of Europe' series; the first by Raymond Hutchings appeared debuted in 1996, the second by Elsie in 2004. The author of more than 50 books and articles on Albania and a literary translator, Elsie here presents 750 brief entries on the people, organizations, and events shaping this turbulent Balkan land. He includes non-Albanians who have contributed significantly to Albanian studies and culture, and he aptly describes items of cultural interest. The 'Evil Eye' entry is particularly intriguing. A chronology of Albanian history from the seventh century B.C.E. to 2009, plus lists of heads of state and political organizations, provides useful supplemental material. The most noticeable update since the 2004 edition is in the extensive classified bibliography. The maps are also new to this edition. BOTTOM LINE Highly recommended for libraries.