Early 20th-century ethnographic and historical literature often portrayed modern Albanians (referred to as Schkipetaren or Skipetars) as direct spiritual and ethnic descendants of the ancient Illyrians and Epirotes. One such text states:
“The Schkipetaren; Pyrrhus of Epirus already shows the type of a daring and talented Albanian mercenary leader, and if we can trust tradition, there is also in the veins of the great Alexander of Macedon…”
Pyrrhus of Epirus as the Prototypical Albanian Leader
Pyrrhus (319–272 BC), King of Epirus, is presented here as the classic example of the daring and brilliant Albanian-style military commander. Known for his exceptional generalship, bold campaigns, and adventurous spirit, Pyrrhus fought in Italy against Rome, in Sicily, and across the Greek world. His victories were often costly, giving rise to the expression “Pyrrhic victory.”
For Albanian nationalist historiography and sympathetic Western observers, Pyrrhus embodied key Albanian martial qualities: courage, tactical skill, personal charisma, and a willingness to fight as a mercenary or independent leader far from home. Skanderbeg himself later invoked Pyrrhus and the Epirote tradition as part of his own lineage.
Connection to Alexander the Great
The text further claims that, according to tradition, Alexander the Great also had Albanian blood in his veins. This refers to the fact that Alexander’s mother, Olympias, was a princess of the Aeacid dynasty of Epirus — the same royal house from which Pyrrhus descended. Through his maternal line, Alexander was therefore connected to the ancient Epirote rulers.
While modern scholarship generally considers the ancient Epirotes a Greek-speaking people with possible Illyrian elements, this older interpretation has been popular in Albanian historical narratives as evidence of deep continuity between ancient Epirote/Illyrian warriors and the modern Albanian people.
The portrayal of Pyrrhus as a quintessential “Albanian mercenary leader” type underscores the long-standing reputation of Albanians as formidable fighters and skilled military entrepreneurs throughout history.
Source
Eine deutsche Herausgegeben von Paul Lindau Vierundzwanzigster Band Mit den Porträts von Vischer Von Giesebrecht und Gabriel Max Breslau. 1883 Verlag von S Schottlaender. Nord und Süd.
