TIRANA, August 12 – Jeronim De Rada published “Songs of Milosao” in Naples 190 years ago. The work appeared in August 1836. It is also considered a lyrical masterpiece of the Albanian National Renaissance.
De Rada had completed the work in October 1834. He also wrote its preface at that time. “Songs of Milosao” introduced a new artistic and national spirit. The Arbëresh writer tells the story of 2 young people who challenge social divisions for their love. He combines pure emotion with a sense of national duty.
The work centres on Milosao, the son of the prince of Shkodër, and Rina, a poor girl and daughter of Kollogre. Their simple love story takes place in the 15th century. The main theme also reflects the author’s own love, which fate had condemned to end.
Milosao and Rina share a pure love despite their different social backgrounds. However, their story ends in tragedy. Rina dies, while Milosao falls in battle. Despite their fate, the work delivers a powerful message about equality in love and sacrifice for the homeland.
De Rada structured the work as a lyrical novel. Lyrical and epic elements coexist throughout the story. In the 19th century, the Arbëresh community preserved and developed Albanian language and culture in exile. Against this background, the work became a call for national commitment and devotion to the homeland.
The work also draws on the spiritual richness of Arbëresh of Italy folklore. Victor Hugo praised it as a “perfect Romantic work.”
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