On October 23, 1871, the eminent figure of Albanian literature, Father Gjergj Fishta, was born.
Today, the General Directorate of Archives honors the remarkable presence of this literary giant in Albanian literature, drawing parallels between his work and the epic “Iliad” of the ancient Greek author, Homer.
Fishta’s style is also likened to the likes of Dante and Goethe, owing to his remarkable fusion of mythology with reality, profound philosophical musings, and the captivating intensity of his writings.
Father Gjergj Fishta received his initial education at the Franciscan Seminary in Shkodra. He proceeded with his studies in philosophy and theology in Bosnia.
Fishta made history as the first Albanian director of the Franciscan School, where he championed the use of Albanian as a medium of instruction.
As a representative of the Union Society (Shoqnia Bashkimi), he played a significant role in the Congress of Monastir, where he assumed the position of chairman, actively guiding the Alphabet Commission’s efforts.
In 1913, he founded the literary and cultural magazine The Star of Light (Hylli i Dritës). During the tumultuous period of World War I, Fishta co-founded the Literary Commission with Luigj Gurakuqi, aiming to create a standardized national literary language.
In 1920, he took on the role of Secretary-General of the Albanian delegation during the Peace Conference in Paris. The same year marked his election as a deputy from Shkodra. In 1924, he participated in the June Revolution, which would go down in history.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to education, literature, and religion, Father Gjergj Fishta received the prestigious “Foenix” decoration in 1931 and was honored as a member of the Italian Academy in 1939. His magnum opus, the epic poem “The Highland Lute” (Lahuta e Malcis), stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, spanning over 40 years of labor.
Father Gjergj Fishta breathed his last in his hometown of Shkodra on December 30, 1940. Accompanying this tribute are photographs capturing Fishta alongside the prominent figures of his era, the official document from the government announcing his appointment as a delegate to the Peace Conference in Paris, and excerpts from his literary masterpiece, “The Highland Lute”.
