A fresh perspective on Maltese history
A monograph that will render Melitensia more popular and accessible
Frak Mill-Istorja. Ħarsa minn taħt
by Evarist Bartolo
SKS Publishers
As a history teacher trying to inject others with a love of our nation’s rich history and heritage, I make it a point I do not miss any publications of historical value that are published on our islands. I believe one cannot appreciate European history without first falling in love with that of their own native country.
Evarist Bartolo’s Frak Mill-Istorja. Ħarsa minn taħt is a book with a catching title. The title of the book has been translated as ‘Fragments from history – an underhand view’. The title may reflect the political background from which the writer stems, considering that Bartolo may be described as a left-wing politician who would rather consider history ‘from below’ as it where, rather than history written by the those who wield power.
I believe this is what makes the publication all the more important and valuable. We are used to reading history books written by those who stand at the highest echelons of society; Bartolo’s opus helps us to consider history from a different viewpoint.
Bartolo may not consider himself a historian but his book will be sought more than specialised works of the science itself. This is due to his style which is straightforward, engaging, clear and to the point. He has a way of presenting
facts which become all the more convincing when one takes into account the wider vivid descriptions from which they unfold.
The book reflects years of research and a genuine love for one’s own roots
I have to say that I read the entire book in two sittings; such was the urge to know what comes next as he switches from one theme to the other.
Even when the themes vary in nature, they still provide the reader with the feeling that they are interconnected.
I found his methodology expressed in the use of numbers preceding subtitles as helpful and familiar; it reminded me of the Church history I studied when I was still a student.
Bartolo’s Frak Mill-Istorja will appeal to all readers. It may not be a specialised work of history but it still is, in my opinion, a monograph that will render Melitensia more popular and accessible.
The book reflects years of research and a genuine love for one’s own roots.
The writer’s views when it comes to recent events is balanced at best as is expected from a politician who has hardly ever minced his words.
His references to local historians within the text itself provide the book with flavour; students of history will be able to look up their works and delve deeper into our national history.
It is a book I would recommend to one and all.