All submitted manuscripts in the refereed journal undergo double-blind peer review process before publication. The present proceedings is compiled according to SCOPUS classification system of scientific journals. The views of authors may not coincide with the positions of the Editorial Board. Author is responsible for the quality and content of the article. Journal DOI: https://doi.org/10.52340/idw E- ISSN: 2667-999X ISSN: 2233-3401
Cultural-educational aim of Razhden Khundadze for Defending the Holly Treasure
Razhden Khundadze, alongside other prominent Georgian intellectuals, was a devoted guardian of the Georgian national cause. He made a particularly significant contribution to the development and preservation of Georgian musical culture. A distinguished chanter, he actively championed the authentic preservation, revitalization, and dissemination of Georgian traditional secular and sacred music. His role extended beyond performance: he was also a respected educator, choir leader (lotbari), poet-journalist, and author of original musical compositions and pedagogical manuals. In addition to studying and notating ancient Georgian musical works, Archpriest Razhden was an active contributor to the press of his time. He regularly published articles in periodicals such as Droeba, Iveria, Kvali, Kolkhida, Mtsqemsi, Pari, Shinauri Sakmeebi (“Domestic Affairs”), Chveni Kvekana (“Our Country”), Ganatleba (“Education”), and others. He passionately defended the Georgian language, which was under threat during the era of Tsarist repression. Through his patriotic poetry and public writings, he participated fervently in the national-liberation movement alongside fellow Georgian activists. To date, we know that Archpriest Razhden Khundadze transcribed 1,641 ecclesiastical hymns and 277 folk songs into musical notation. Through his tireless efforts and with divine assistance, he preserved for future generations the ancient tradition of Georgian three-part ecclesiastical chanting, safeguarding a cornerstone of Georgia’s cultural and spiritual heritage
Leo Shengelaia – A Voice for the National Idea
It is widely acknowledged that the Georgian academic space suffers from a lack of research concerning the period of the Democratic Republic. A significant number of documents were either destroyed, lost, or deliberately suppressed by Soviet censorship. As a result, there is a dearth of material reflecting the activities of the political elite of the early 20th century. The study of political figures not only honors the past but also contributes to the enrichment of the worldview and knowledge base of contemporary scholars. This article, against the backdrop of party collaboration during the years 1918-1921, explores the national idea promoted by the Georgian Socialist-Revolutionaries (Essers) and presents a political portrait of Leo Shengelaia, the party’s leader and a prominent advocate of this idea. The present work is an interdisciplinary study based on primary sources and examines the activities of the Essers’ leader within the socio-political context of Georgia during these years, as well as the processes of state democratization. The research is based on publications from ,,Labour”, the official press organ of the Georgian Socialist-Revolutionary Party. A comprehensive analysis of party press content has enabled not only an in-depth understanding of the specific individual’s activities but also an evaluation of state and public policy, leading to informed conclusions. The period of 1918-1921 and the associated historical portraits should remain a strategic focus for scholarly analysis and evaluation in the fields of Georgian history, political science, and journalism. This era constitutes an integral component of the Georgian cultural sphere and holds significant ideological, worldview-related, and thematic relevance.
The Role of Covering Ethnic, Conflict and Integration Processes in Regional Media – Georgia’s Experience in the 1990-s
Today, Mass Media are the most important mediators between social, cultural and political spheres, and their changing nature as a result of technological development creates new perspectives and challenges. New forms of Media have long been creating a new reality and combining various approaches and strategies that serve as the main tools for media development and exchange of cultural context. The architecture of modern society is a process of studying the interaction of historical contexts and contemporary challenges and affects such important aspects as: cultural practices, social norms, political order and economic inequality. Identity is often a key characteristic of individual and group belonging, which does not accurately reflect the impact on social interactions and collective identities. The presented review aims to highlight the importance of media ethics in the regional media of Georgia in the 1990s and to place special emphasis on it in terms of discussing social responsibility, ethnic and integration issues. Ethical dilemmas were actively covered in the regional media during this period, when the new political and social reality directed the country towards transformation. In the 1990s, regional media in Georgia played an important role not only in disseminating information but also in correcting stereotypes about ethnic groups and achieving public consensus. Issues of Media Ethics became especially relevant at the time when the coverage of ethnic confrontations and conflicts became a matter of media responsibility. An Article discusses how regional media acted ethically as builders of social connections and what impact they had in terms of coverage of ethnic, conflict and integration processes.
Stages of Development of Transmedia Journalism
The transformation of the media environment in the last decade has led to a fundamental change in the processes of information production, dissemination and perception. Along with the development of digital technologies, journalism has moved beyond the framework of traditional single-channel storytelling and moved to multi-channel communication, where transmedia will play a crucial role. Transmedia storytelling involves the development of a single story on different platforms so that each channel develops a different aspect of it and contributes to deepening audience engagement. The paper discusses the main characteristics of transmedia, its importance in modern journalism and the challenges related to ethics, professionalism, accuracy and new models of audience engagement. Both international and Georgian practical examples are discussed, and the impact of transmedia on the evolution of journalistic standards, multi-platform strategies and new formats of information dissemination is analyzed. Special attention is paid to the possibilities of transmedia in terms of promoting democratic communication and strengthening trust in the media. The aim of the paper is a theoretical and practical analysis of transmedia in the modern media reality in order to determine its potential and role in shaping the future of journalism. This paper aims to analyze transmedia projects in modern mass media. Transmedia journalism is a multiplatform strategy for disseminating information, which creates a narratively unified, but technically diversified story. The study shows that the transmedia approach significantly increases audience engagement, improves the quality of information perception and creates the possibility of interactive communication. The article discusses the characteristics of transmedia journalism, their advantages and difficulties, as well as examples of international and Georgian cases. Special attention is paid to the practice of Georgian media, where transmedia elements are already integrated. The final part of the paper presents recommendations for improving transmedia strategy. Transmedia communication is one of the most dynamic and multifaceted phenomena in modern mass media. It involves the dissemination of information on various platforms, which creates a unified but multi-layered narrative. The article explores the essence, development and impact of transmedia on the relationship with the audience. Key theoretical models, analysis and examples from modern practice are used.
Foreign and Georgian Multimedia Platforms – Convergence and Ethics
With the advancement of digital technologies, the modern media landscape is undergoing significant transformation. Multimedia platforms—combining textual, visual, and audio formats—have become the primary source of information for audiences. This study explores how the convergence of multimedia platforms influences the speed and quality of information dissemination, examines the ethical challenges associated with convergent journalism, compares international and Georgian media standards, and outlines the necessary steps to improve multimedia ethical standards in Georgia. Convergent journalism represents the media sector’s response to the evolution of digital technologies. The contemporary digital ecosystem assigns a pivotal role to multimedia platforms. These platforms—including online newspapers, social networks, podcasts, and live broadcasts—form a new media structure that integrates both textual and audiovisual content. This integration ensures rapid and effective communication of information to a broad audience. Organizations such as the BBC and The New York Times actively utilize multiple platforms to create unified information flows, offering audiences multidimensional perspectives (BBC Editorial Guidelines, n.d.). In Georgia, media outlets such as Netgazeti and Formula News have successfully adopted the convergent model, enabling them to deliver text, video, and audio content simultaneously. The development of convergent models in both international and Georgian media environments plays a crucial role in modern journalism. International practices demonstrate that convergent journalism offers not only diverse content but also in-depth analysis and interactive opportunities. In Georgia, such developments have significantly expanded the capabilities of media organizations; however, technological and ethical challenges remain evident.
Affricates in the Kazakh Dialect of the Western Group of the Azerbaijani Language
The phonetic system of the Azerbaijani language, particularly at the dialectal level, is important for studying linguistic diversity and language development. In Standard Azerbaijani, affricates are limited to two types — [č] (voiceless) and [ǯ] (voiced) — which are used in all speech positions and morphological forms. However, the Qazakh dialect of the Western group of Azerbaijani has two additional affricates: [c] and [ȝ]. These affricates do not appear in Standard Azerbaijani and are exclusively used in dialectal speech. They occur in various word positions and suffixes, emphasising their functional significance at the dialectal level. Researchers suggest that the emergence of these sounds is associated with historical-linguistic influences, particularly contact with Khazars, Kipchaks, Mongols and Caucasian languages. The Qazakh dialect also exhibits chain transformations of affricates, whereby sibilant affricates [č] and [ǯ] shift to their non-sibilant counterparts [c] and [ȝ]. These changes have led to the formation of numerous regional variants and parallel phonemic systems, demonstrating the rich and multilayered nature of Azerbaijani phonetics and dialectology. Affricates such as [c] and [ȝ] are not just dialectal phenomena; they also reflect significant ethno-linguistic and historical processes, broadening our understanding of the development and regional diversity of the Azerbaijani language.
French Phraseological Units and Their Georgian Equivalents
The article explores French phraseological units and their equivalents in the Georgian language, while also emphasizing the importance of the cultural dimension in establishing effective intercultural communication. It presents specific examples of these interactions, particularly illustrating how regional languages can influence idiomatic expressions, thereby contributing to linguistic richness and diversity. The article also examines the impact of phraseological expressions on two levels: the micro level (the internal structure of the syntagm) and the macrostructural level (the global structure of the sentence). The examples provided demonstrate how these expressions enrich the languages in which they are used and play a significant role in discourse. Furthermore, the article discusses the types of translation for phraseological units—complete, selective, partial equivalents, and calques—highlighting the necessity for a nuanced approach to preserve idiomatic meaning. A transversal perspective reveals the crucial role of culture in the understanding and usage of phraseological expressions, their deep cultural roots, and their capacity to convey values, beliefs, and knowledge. The importance of intercultural influences and linguistic borrowings is underscored for achieving accuracy in translation and interpretation, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of the essence of language and culture through the lens of phraseological expressions.
Lexical Correspondences between 5th–18th Century Literary Georgian and Southern Dialects
Since the 1990s, comprehensive research has been undertaken into the language, folklore, and cultural practices of the indigenous population and descendants of the Muhajirs from the Chorokhi Valley. The findings indicate that several historical regions—Adjara, Shavsheti, Klarjeti, Tao, and Speri—took shape within the Chorokhi river basin. The inhabitants of these areas maintained close interaction both internally and with neighboring regions, resulting in speech forms that are linguistically adjacent. Consequently, these varieties are classified as a distinct group, commonly referred to as Southern dialects or Southern Georgian speech. From a linguistic, historical, and geographical perspective, the Southern dialects encompass Adjarian, Shavsheti, Klarjeti, and Tao subvarieties. Today, the Adjarian dialect remains in active use within the borders of Georgia, along with fragments of the Klarjeti dialect (three villages: Mirveti, Kvemo Maradidi, and Kirnati) and the Shavsheti dialect (in the lower Machakhlistskali Gorge, a part of historical Shavsheti). However, the majority of these dialects are now located within the territory of the Republic of Turkey, where Georgian is largely forgotten. Nevertheless, the remaining Georgian speech has preserved valuable linguistic elements and archaic lexical units. Certain words preserved in the Southern dialects display meanings that directly correspond to those found in literary Georgian texts dating from the 5th to the 18th centuries. This paper examines several such lexical items: gankarveba – to vanish’, to disperse’: ghmertma gigikaros, ratskha derdi gak (May God make it disappear; some sorrow has vanished). shektseva – to turn back’, to return’: k'arshi ar guushvebdit, ar shuuktsioso (They wouldn’t let him in the house, saying: ‘May he never return). modrek'a, modrek'ili, modrek'iloba – to humble oneself’, to bend down’, to kneel’; bending’: shuamtashi shevel, ek'lesia dabali iqo, modrek'ili shevel (We entered Shuamt’a; the church was low, so we had to bend to enter). tsudi – worthless’, ineffective’: tsude ram yarebi (A worthless wound it was). dzeli//shesha – timber’, plank’, log’: dzelis sakhleb gavak'etebdit; shishis(<sheshis)mukhi gaak'atavden (We built houses from timber; they made a bench from oak firewood). jinch'veli – nettle’: jinch'velia, ant'eroghli ant'eri! (It’s nettle, That annoying ant!). mzis-tvali – literally eye of the sun’, sun’: erti-ori dghe tsivia, imis uk'an zitvalia; bzituali chevda, go, ar shegets'qina? (It’s cold for a day or two, then the sun returns; The sun came out—did it bother you?). suli – scent’: ra k'ay suli gidiso (What a nice scent you're giving off). t'arosi – weather’: t'arosebi atsivdeba, ts'avalt (The weather is getting colder, let's go). The Southern dialects contain numerous additional lexical items that also appear in early Georgian literary scripture. These linguistic parallels provide valuable material for exploring the relationship between these dialectal forms and the literary tradition of the Georgian language.
Free Indirect Discourse and Its Transformation in the Georgian Language (According to D. H. Lawrence’s Short Prose)
At the beginning of the 20th century, in the modernist era, when the techniques of direct and indirect discourse first appeared in the works of writers of that time, the seemingly strange narrative fascinated researchers of literature and language alike. One of its methods, the free indirect style, has become the subject of wide discussion since its active role in the work of fiction has not yet been clarified. The above-mentioned debates were shaped by two controversies: whether the free indirect style technique is of linguistic origin and what can be attributed to the perspective expressed in it. Both questions, although different, are intertwined. Based on the views of researchers on the issue of its linguistic origin, their further analysis of voice and perspective is caused by the free indirect style. Contradictory positions in these debates can be identified both in the opinions expressed about the development of the theory of monophonic free indirect style, as well as in the theories of double voice. Proponents of the dual-voice theory argue that this style combines two voices at once, which are often difficult to distinguish. This is the voice of the narrator and the voice of the character, and offers rich possibilities for interpretation. The dual-voice interpretation is usually accompanied by the belief that the origin of the style lies in everyday interaction. The present study also deals with the methods and ways of translating free indirect discourse passages in D.H. Lawrences’s short fiction and compares them with the source language text.
Main Strategies for Creating Literary Texts in Georgian
Literary language, as an expression of practical stylistics, constitutes a distinct field of study and is clearly differentiated from other functional styles. In Georgian, various linguistic resources are considered for creating this type of text; however, it is ultimately the writer’s skill in strategically and masterfully selecting among them to achieve specific goals and express ideas that determines success. This is by no means an easy task. In our view, it is through such careful selection that a writer can captivate readers, develop a unique individual style, and create a personal world that sets them apart from others. In this regard, the focus of our study is the works of Davit Turdospereli (Chkheidze). Both quantitative and qualitative research reveal that, for a writer, the key concern is not only their worldview but also the adequacy of its expression, which is excellently achieved through the main strategies for creating literary texts—namely, the richness and diversity of tropological expressions. Among these, the primary metaphor stands out as a direct product of the author’s creativity and as the most effective means of shaping literary form. Through these metaphors, the connection of features and qualities of objects and events is determined directly by the writer’s individuality: ,,ტყეს სიხარულისაგან სახე აუფეთქდა“ [tkes sikharulisagan sakhe aupetqda] (The forest’s face burst with joy); “ ,...ბნელოდა კიდეც, ნესტიც იდგა, შიმშილიც იზმორებოდა“ [... bneloda kidets, nestits idga, shimshilits izmoreboda] (…it grew dark, the dampness lingered, and hunger gnawed); “,,ერთ მთვარიან ღამეს გაისმა ზამთრის თითების კაკუნი“ [ert mtvarian ghames gaisma zamtris Titebis kakuni] (On a moonlit night, the tapping of winter’s fingers was heard). In comparison, through this stylistic device of representation and one of the most prominent forms of literary description, Davit Turdospereli masterfully achieves the juxtaposition of objects and events or, based on the transfer of externally similar or internally characteristic features, their contrast. The texts analyzed contain a rich array of comparisons created through various techniques, imbued with emotional nuance: ,,-საოცარია, არავითარი მებაღე არა ჰზრუნავს მათზე... არავინ უვლის... ასე ტურფანი კი არიან... თითქოს ნამით კი არა, მსუყე რძით იყვნენ ნაპკურები და ნაზარდნი..,“ [saotsaria, aravitari mebaghe ara hzrunavs matze... aravin uvlis... ase turphani ki arian... titqos namit ki ara, msuke rdzit ikvnen napkurebi da nazardni] (It is astonishing, no gardener tends to them… no one cares for them… yet they are so tender… as if they were not nourished by sap, but by rich milk…) ,,რცხილა ლაწალუწით გადაეშვა... სახელოვან გმირსავით დაეცა უთანასწორო ბრძოლაში“ [rtskhila latsalutsit gadaeshva... sakhelovan gmirsavit daeca utanastsoro brdzolashi] (The chestnut fell with a flutter… it fell like a celebrated hero in an uneven battle.) The epithet is an integral component of both literary and non-literary styles, emphasizing a property of an event and used to enhance the reader’s impression. It vividly expresses the speaker’s ideological perspective and the nuances of subjective attitude. At the same time, it beautifies and adorns the appearance of an object or event, or, conversely, can demean and belittle it. For our study, metaphorical epithets became a particular focus of investigation. Quantitative analysis showed that this phenomenon is a prominently characteristic strategy: ,,გვიძლიერდებოდა სურვილი, როგორმე შევმძვრალიყავით და გაგვეთბო გაჭირხლული სახსრები“ [gvidzlierdeboda survili, rogorme shevmdzvralikavit da gagvetbo gacirkhluli sakhsrebi] (The desire grew stronger to somehow escape and warm our shivering bodies). ,,უფათერაკოდ გადავიარეთ გიჟთვალა ხევები“ [uphaterakod gadaviaret gijTvala khevebi] (We crossed the ravines as if possessed by madness). ,,ხეების შემომწვარი ჩონჩხები გატიტვლებული იყვნენ აღმართულნი“ [kheebis shemtsvari chonchkhebi gatitvlebuli ikvnen aghmartulni] (The charred skeletons of trees were raised, dried out and withered). Personification is a stylistic device in literary expression characterized by the attribution of human qualities to objects and events, effectively humanizing both inanimate and spiritual entities. In personification, an inanimate object is presented as a human being who feels, reasons, and acts: ,,ტყეს ჟრჟოლამ დაუარა“ [tkes zjrzjolam dauara] (A shiver ran through the forest). ,,კიდევ ბევრს იჭარტალებდა ასკილი, მაგრამ ბოროტ ფიქრთა დენა შეუწყვიტა ბავშვების ჟრიამულმა“ [kidev bevrs itcharkhleboda askili, magram borot piqrta dena sheutskvita bavshvebis jriamulma] (The ash tree still cracked in many places, but the children’s joyful noise cut through the flow of evil thoughts). ,,სიამოვნებისგან ათრთოლდნენ ყაყაჩოები“ [siamovnebisagan atrtoldnen kakachoebi] (The poppies trembled with pleasure). ,,მთელი ღამის განმავლობაში ქვითინებდა ქარი“ [mteli ghamis ganmavlobashi qvitinebda qari] (The wind wailed throughout the night)... Thus, the analysis confirms that the richness of tropological expressions is a fundamental strategy in creating literary texts. These devices indeed play a decisive role in achieving textual expression and effect. The diverse means, employed with high artistic mastery, help the reader to better perceive and analyze the ideological meaning of the text.
The functioning of the Kist dialect of the Chechen language within the modern Georgian linguistic Space
The Kist dialect is a distinctive element of the Chechen language, spoken by the Kist people living mainly in the Pankisi Gorge in Georgia. Historically, the Kist language was transmitted from generation to generation through oral tradition, with children naturally acquiring the linguistic heritage within their immediate family. The older generation played a key role in transmitting the language, while children acquired it through everyday communication within the family and community. In this model, language served as both a means of communication and a vital element of cultural memory and ethnic identity. However, over the past few decades, there has been a weakening in the intergenerational transmission of the Kist language due to both internal and external factors. The Kist population is practically completely bilingual — they are fluent in both Kist and Georgian. This bilingualism is a long-standing linguistic reality, arising from the coexistence of the Kists' ethnic-linguistic identity and the surrounding Georgian-speaking environment. Over the past thirty years, the Georgian language has gained a leading position, associated with various social, political and cultural factors. Following Georgia's independence, the language gained official status within the country's state institutions and education system. Consequently, for Kist youth, reading and writing in Georgian and receiving an education have become necessary components of life, as has the opportunity for professional development. The influence of the Georgian language on the Kist dialect is a two-way process: on the one hand, the Georgian language enriches the Kist dialect with new elements; on the other hand, this leads to linguistic assimilation and a gradual weakening of the Kist dialect's presence in various areas of language use. In October 2023, I conducted a sociolinguistic study in a Chechen (Kist) community to investigate the functioning and intergenerational transmission of the Kist language. As part of the study, I conducted interviews and administered questionnaires to different age groups within the community. This approach provided a multifaceted analysis of the linguistic situation in terms of both linguistic competence and the practical use of language. The study primarily aimed to reveal how Kist speech functions in specific social contexts (e.g. family life, social relations, education and public spaces) and to assess the sustainability of its intergenerational transmission.
Towards the Question of Main Components of Minor Paroemia Constructin
A proverb is an integral part of the verbal folklore of a given ethnos - “cast” in the mould of the common national consciousness, which is directly linked with speech (speech in its turn, naturally, is expressive of thinking). Accordingly, it qualitatively (both formally and semantically) is the micro-model of the life and mentality of the world where it was created and where it operates. The present paper aims to interpret the proverb – a formula modeled as a certain concept in a given mentality . On the basis of study of Arabic Syriandialect (with Georgian parallels) material, it is identified how, by what general and at the same time specific means, characteristic of each, the given stereotyped wisdom is created. Conclusions also cover the general theoretical aspect of the problem. On the basis of the analysis of the examples it becomes clear that a proverb comes into being by the simultaneous operation of all the components involved in its creation. Each of them is equally important. The objective reality reflected in them are as usual constructed on specific syntagmatic relations sometimes on the surface level (obviously) and on the deep level (non-obviously) as well. Accordingly they cannot be regarded as mutually independent objects and phenomena, as they are a whole system of regularities being in a certain conceptual connection by means of logical relations. Accordingly, it is possible to understand a proverb only by gaining deep insight into these connections, understanding the regularities found in the historical reality of the given ethnos and by studying the conceptual thinking recorded within the existing mentality. All Arabic examples are recorded and translated from Arabic primary source - directly from Syrian, Lebanese, informants. To avoid possible inaccuracies, for a researcher (not a native speaker of Arabic) interested in studying proverbs the best way proved direct relationship with informants. By re-interpretation in appropriate context, imaginary logical relations established with respect to a particular phenomenon in given ethnoconsciousness (between things and phenomena) were specified. The urgency of this topic is also due to the fact that it is the first attempt to introduce a new topic into Georgian Arabistics.
Psycholinguistic, Cognitive, and Cultural Foundations of Foreign Language Acquisition
Foreign language acquisition is a complex process influenced by psycholinguistic, cognitive, and cultural factors. Language is considered part of the human neurological system and is affected by both biological and socio-cultural environments. Early language acquisition is more effective due to the innate ability of humans and the universal features of language. In learners’ cognition, the creation of new language forms and structures occurs through a process of hypothesis testing, which involves learning and error correction. The issue of "fossilization," or the incorrect and repetitive internalization of errors, remains significant and can cause delays. Language learning is viewed in cognitive science as the development of procedural skills, where rule automatization and the structuring of internal representations are crucial. Multilingual experience facilitates better foreign language learning by providing learners with greater flexibility and strategic abilities. Cultural and social factors are also highly important: learner integration and acculturation determine the quality of language acquisition. Personal motivation, social relationships, and language environment influence the learning process. Sociocultural factors, including acculturation distance, social integration, and motivation, play a key role in the quality of language learning. After the critical period, language acquisition requires conscious hypothesis formulation and feedback processes, impacting linguistic development. Thus, foreign language learning demands an integrated approach that considers psycholinguistic, cognitive, and cultural aspects to ensure comprehensive language mastery.
Common Functional Basis of Expression of Subordination in Non-Literary Kartvelian Languages and Dialects of the Georgian Language
Non-literary Kartvelian languages (Megrelian, Laz and Svan) and the dialects of the Georgian language form a communicative system of oral speech. Therefore, numerous language phenomena have a common basis of expression in Kartvelian languages and Georgian dialects. An example of the above-mentioned is a certain type of complex sentence with a peculiar particle and intonation. The speakers use the construction under analysis chiefly for expressing emotional tension in narration. In Megrelian, the formal marker of the above-mentioned construction is the particle -o, which connects two clauses based on subordination. In such construction, the subordinate clause has the initial position. The particle -o is added to its final member and is pronounced with a rising tone, which points to incompleteness. Hence, the idea becomes complete in the following main clause.Mention should be made of the fact that the construction of the subordinate clause with particle -o is overly complicated. It is based on the principle of co-subordination, but the verb of saying/ordering semantics, implied as the main component, is mostly omitted.The particle -o which performs a subordinating function is translated into Georgian by means of the conjunction rom “that”. For instance, Megrelian kars mioǯinuo, mudgareni kimk’oč’ aru (Khubua, 3, 11) is literally translated into Georgian as: kars šexedaa , raγaca ac’eria; but a complete translation is: kars rom šexeda , [dainaxa], raγaca ac’eria “when he/she looked at the door, he/she saw that something was written on it”. Similar hypotactic constructions are found in Georgian dialects. Instead of the particle -o found in Megrelian, we find the particle -a in the Ingiloy texts recorded by M. Janashvili. In the dialects of Guria and Achara, the vowel of the final member of the subordinate clause is lengthened, which is a functional equivalent of the above-mentioned Megrelian and Ingiloy cases. It is highly probable that the particles -o and -a are of the same origin: they are either interrogative particles or prosodic elements (clitics) obtained from the verbs o-ren / a-ris (third person singular form of the verb “to be”); In Svan, this type of hypotactic construction is expressed by means of the particle -c “-ts”. In non-literary Kartvelian languages and Georgian dialects, particles and intonation serve as subordinating conjunctions and emphasize the definiteness of the fact expressed by the hypotactic construction.
Personal pronouns in Georgian Sign Language
In my book “Georgian Sign Language,” I reviewed in detail the pronouns in this language (pp. 244-288) and systematically contrasted these forms with those in spoken Georgian. It is important to note that there is an opinion according to which, in general, we do not have pronouns in sign languages, and these are deictic forms. Indeed, if we look at the data of Georgian Sign Language - GESL, the first, second, and third person pronouns are deictic forms and not the proper lexical signs. This is generally a common occurrence for sign languages. The linguistic logic here is quite clear. It is worth noting that somatic vocabulary in nouns is also referential or pointing. Almost all sign languages ​​have a way of pointing body parts. Thus, in these languages, ‘foot’, ‘heart’, ‘knee’, ‘head’, ‘eye’, ‘nose’, ‘mouth’, etc. will be represented in the same way. It is noteworthy that GESL (like many other sign languages) does not distinguish between class or gender categories in pronouns. Against this background, it is important to note that GESL, as a three-dimensional system, prioritizes the emphasis on spatial marking. Pronouns in sign languages ​​can be represented in manual and non-manual forms. The non-manual form usually refers to the mimic version of the corresponding sign. In the case of pronouns, this can also be a gaze. Thus, we have the following forms of pronouns: Manual forms, when the personal pronouns are deictic forms; Mimic forms, when facial expressions express a particular pronoun; Forms with gaze, when the gaze indicates a specific person. This form is also deictic in nature. From the three versions listed above, by their combinations, we obtain the following two-member possibilities: A combination of manual and gaze; A combination of gaze and mimic. A three-membered combination is also possible: A combination of gaze, manual and mimic forms. Based on the GESL data, it should be said that the last three-member combination is used relatively less, neither the combination of manual and gaze is frequent in GESL.
Aspects of Perception and Structuring of Colour Words in English and Georgian Languages
This study aims at a comparative exploration of the semantic structure and perception of the words denoting basic colours in two different languages, namely Georgian and English, analyzing the systems denoting colours and revealing the models of categorization of words denoting the concept of colours in order to state its relation with universal model. We have studied “colour” words in both Georgian and English Languages considering the following methods: comparative – the words in this group compare the colour or its hue to some object of the same colour; the words denoting abstract colours – these words do not reveal links with any definite object. The study of the words constituting the colour field revealed the following: analysis of the data showed that there are more colour words denoting definite colour by comparing them to the object of the same colour, in the English language more than in the Georgian language; analysis of the data revealed that the number of the words denoting abstract colours is presumably the same in the both languages. As a result of analysis of different types of relationships, a new way of structuring the lexical groups of colour were discovered implying the existence of two segments (lineal and gradual) in lexical groups of colour.
Different Semantic Features of Verbs Denoting „Eating“
The group of Georgian verbs denoting „eating“ is quite abundant. There is also a wide variety of differential semantic components revealed through the observation of these lexemes. The abundance of verbs under discussion is determined by various factors, primarily, extralinguistic ones. For example, the cognitive meaning of the verb „to eat“ (ჭამს) implies a sequence of several actions placing food into the mouth, chewing, and swallowing. Each of these can be expressed by a number of different lexemes. In literary Georgian and dialects, verbs expressing the act of eating not only denote the action itself but also convey additional nuances: the amount of food consumed (small, large); physical properties of the food (solid, liquid); taste characteristics (sweetness, deliciousness); desirability of the food; time of consumption (verbs derived from nouns denoting specific mealtimes); manner of eating (eating quickly, messily, noisily, or secretly); the speaker's respectful or disrespectful attitude toward the subject of the action, including: polite verbs used in formal communication related to offering or receiving food, derogatory verb forms used in informal discourse. Within the group under discussion, verbs denoting gluttonous eating outnumber all others. Greed, as a universally recognized vice, is also regarded by Georgians as an evil and undesirable trait. In the context of food consumption, gluttony and gourmandizing are considered by Orthodox Christians not only as sins, but also as the root of other sins. Alongside folk knowledge about the harm of overeating, there is religious significance of overeating that has generated semiotic density in the Georgian discourse surrounding the expression of „gluttony“, giving these verbs a distinctly negative connotation.
,,My Heart’s in the Highlands…” Linguo-stylistic analysis of the poem (According to the original and translation
The Scottish pre-Romantic poet Robert Berns holds an important place in the history of world literature. His poetry is multifaceted. We found it interesting to generalize the poetic techniques that made this poetry accessible and easily understandable to everyone. We chose the poem “My Hearts’s in the Highlands,..” by Robert Berns as a material for analyzing. The poem is dedicated to the native Scottish mountains. The poem with its spirit, reminded us of the poem by Ilia Chavchavadze ,,To Mountains of Kvareli”. Both of the poems express longing for the high mountains, where both the land and the air are pure. Observation has shown that the poem is rich in vocabulary, which is ensured by the distinctive stylistic devices used in it. We also found it interesting to study the Georgian translation of the poem. The translation preserves the rhythm, intonation and artistry of the poem. Therefore, we consider this translation to be a sample of translation that is closest to the original, very concise and at the same time graphic.
Speri in the Road Map of the Caucasus Region
Speri is a historical Georgian region located at the headwaters of the Chorokhi River, within whose boundaries Basiani//Fasiani and Baiburt are also presumed to be included. Since 1514, the land of Speri has been under the dominion of the Ottoman Empire (later the Turkish state). Over the past five centuries, the people of Speri have undergone assimilation, causing them to forget their ancestral language. It is worth noting that historical Speri (together with Tao, Klarjeti, and Shavsheti) served as a site for cultural dialogue, where Georgian, Greek, Armenian, and later Ottoman (Turkish) cultures intersected. This dialogue was often harsh and unyielding, with severe repercussions for the daily lives of the Speri population… Historical sources have preserved only scant information about the land of Speri. In such cases, the reconstruction of the historical past relies primarily on toponymy, the "language of the land." Toponyms reveal the life and national identity of the people inhabiting these lands. For the researcher of Speri, every source that has preserved the region’s geographical names is of great importance. This paper examines the toponymy of Speri as documented in the “Road Map of the Caucasus Region” (published in 1903). It presents a structural and semantic analysis of the geographical names, identifying certain structural changes that may have occurred, whether intentionally or unintentionally, during the recording or transmission of information. The researcher seeks to restore the original forms of these toponyms. It has been revealed that the majority of the toponyms are of Georgian/Kartvelian origin, with only a few non-Georgian geographical names. Structurally, the toponymy of Speri continues the characteristic patterns of toponym formation seen in the Chorokhi River valley, with one notable distinction: here, only suffixal formation of geographical names is encountered. For root formation, suffixes with different frequencies are attested: -ნ, -არ/-ალ, -ურ/-ულ, -ის, -ხ(ი), -იკ, -ოთ, -უთ, -ეთ. Alongside them, non-Georgian suffixes are also present: -ჩი/-ჯი (Turkish) and ც (Armenian). Geographical names formed with the -შენ root are attested, as well as bases containing the Armenian element სორ/ძორ (cf. Georgian ხევი). The analysis of the geographical names on the road map serves as further evidence that Speri is a Georgian land.
Some linguistic and stylistic characteristics of Lado Mrelashvili "Adventures of Three Nights"
The writer's purpose is to artistically reflect his contemporary life. He reflects reality and shares with us the spiritual world of the character through artistic and expressive forms and linguistic features. The writer interests the reader with his folk, conversational vocabulary conveyed with great warmth and love in pithy, fluent sentences. His prose is characterized by tropes expressing psychological and emotional experiences and dialogic speech. One of the distinctive features of Lado Mrelashvili's work "Adventures of Three Nights" is the abundance of verbs, which comes from the depths of the folk, colloquial language and gives the text an artistic and expressive function, sometimes bringing the verb-predicate to a metaphor. „Scattered fires were burning in the mountain valleys“; „Lightning bolts were splattered across the sky and the wind was still whipping up the rain“. In Lado Mrelashvili’s prose, original phrases are skillfully selected: „wandering breeze“, ”[namkeni kurdgeli]“, „sedate horse“, „[dakvartsakhebuli bichebi]“, „[gamis sakari]“, „mysterious rustling“ „shining eyes“ „ Transparent obliquely stretched strings of rain“. The writer's language is also distinguished by trope speech patterns, especially comparisons. The writer creates wonderful images and emotionally fills what is to be said, with various conjunctions (-vit, -ebr, (meaning -like), -odena, titkos, rogorc (meaning so much, as if, as) etc.). Lado Mrelashvili's language attracts attention with its semantic peculiarities, word formation and inexhaustible vocabulary. Based on the word formation approach the writer composed semantically and structurally different composites obtained by both stem doubling and different stem combinations: „swarming“, „arms akimbo“, „[tvalmrude]“, „light-fingered“, „eyes as big as saucers“, „godless“, „with a bloody face“. The writer's language is filled with figurative words and phrases that are highly emotional and expressive and represent a highly productive unit for creating a literary text. With phraseological units, he creates artistic portraits where the writer's witty humor and wisdom appear: „[kudze tsotskhi miabes]“, „ is to smb’s liking“ „there is not a soul“, „Satan does not sleep“. It is obvious that the language of Lado Mrelashvili is based on the rich Georgian folk vocabulary. It originates in the depths of vernacular and is characterized by vast variety, which provides great opportunities for linguistic and stylistic diversity.
AI vs Human News Headlines: A Comparative Study of Syntax and Emotional Language
This research examines the comparative linguistic features of newspaper headlines produced by artificial intelligence systems versus human journalists, concentrating particularly on grammatical structure and affective language use. Utilizing theoretical frameworks from Systemic Functional Linguistics, News Values Theory, and Critical Discourse Analysis, the study employs comparative content analysis methodology to evaluate paired headlines sourced from traditional news organizations (BBC, NBC) and AI news platforms (NewsGPT.ai). Results indicate that AI-produced headlines tend to be more concise, declarative, and sensationalized, utilizing active constructions and event-focused verbs. Conversely, human-crafted headlines exhibit greater length, explanatory depth, and analytical perspective, incorporating narrative contextualization, emotional engagement through stylistic devices, and direct quotations. Human-authored content additionally shows enhanced numerical specificity and grammatical intricacy, whereas AI-generated headlines prioritize compression and factual documentation. The research determines that although AI demonstrates capability in generating efficient and striking headlines, human journalists remain essential for maintaining precision, contextual richness, and empathetic authenticity. These results underscore the necessity for harmonious collaboration between AI and human contribution in digital journalism, as each approach offers distinctive yet mutually reinforcing capabilities to modern news media.
Politeness Strategies in Georgian and English Languages: A Linguistic and Cultural Comparison (Based on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and its Georgian Translation)
This paper examines how politeness strategies are expressed in English and Georgian, based on selected dialogues from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and its Georgian translation. Using a contrastive pragmatics approach, the study analyses how key speech acts – such as requests, refusals, apologies, compliments, and expressions of emotion – are realised in both versions. It focuses on how each language encodes politeness through social roles, communication norms, and interactional patterns. The findings reveal that while both English and Georgian cultures place value on interpersonal harmony, they achieve this goal through distinctly different means. English dialogue usually prefers to be indirect and careful in tone. Speakers often use soft or cautious language, avoid exaggeration, and keep a polite or emotionally distant style. This shows that English communication often values personal independence and respectful social behaviour. In contrast, Georgian favours expressiveness, directness within social boundaries, hierarchical sensitivity, and overt emotional engagement. These tendencies point to broader cultural scripts and contrasting views on how respect, solidarity, and authority are conveyed in interaction. This paper also shows how important the translator’s role is as a cultural bridge, especially in literature, where politeness is not only in the words but also in tone, style, and hidden meanings. Translating dialogue in fiction is particularly difficult because even small changes in politeness can affect how characters relate to each other. The study helps us better understand how different cultures communicate and shows why it is important to teach and learn how language works in real social situations – not just words, but meaning and context too.
Artistic means of expression in Goderdzo Chokheli's story "Children of God"
The story portrays the events of the Second WW2 and the story of a soldier on the battlefield, who sends letters from the front line to his wounded friend, now returned to their village. The narrative employs a variety of artistic techniques that render it both emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging. Through the use of literary devices - particularly symbolism - Goderdzi Chokheli draws attention to fundamental aspects of Georgian identity, including the alphabet, faith, national consciousness, and moral integrity. Beyond the narrative itself lies the question of how the author communicates with and influences the reader. The impact of each word depends not only on its meaning but also on the deliberate precision with which it is chosen. A close analysis of the story reveals the linguistic tools that define its artistic expression, with symbolism standing out as the most prominent. Additionally, dialectal vocabulary appears frequently in the speech of the characters and occasionally in the narrator’s voice as well—for instance: "Did justice disappear from over the earth, you are going through in my pockets as I sleep it Well, look at me, from which side is it going to pass by me?" "We were young then, and young luck is its own young. Every day, when luck cries out, it seems that a youngsters needs luck just as much as an old man." Proverbs and folk expressions also feature prominently in the characters’ dialogue, adding cultural authenticity and thematic depth: "Whoever has time, drinks cold water"; "A worthless fly buzzes where lies lie"; "What am I doing is boiling my heart in the gloom of sorrow?" Chokheli frequently employs repetition to intensify emotional effect and reinforce key ideas: "I am never feared death and I am still not afraid of it"; "Look, giant, look, giant, how it has struck me!" "... God even knows that love is hidden in the heart of the heart, what love is in the heart of that love and what love is in the heart of that love"; "What is it like, are you a man or a giant ..." The story also makes extensive use of similes and metaphors, enriching the text with vivid imagery: "In the distant night, these trees light our way like candles"; "Angels were picking nuts as red as pomegranates and offering them to God"; "His angelic heart stopped beating, and Levan slept again." Ultimately, the diverse array of literary devices in the story serves as a spiritual compass, guiding the reader to reflect on enduring human values such as forgiveness, compassion, warmth, and faith.
Competences of the President of Georgia in the Field of Defense and Security: Problems and Future Perspectives
This paper examines the amendments made to the country’s main law on October 13, 2017, the limited powers of the President as the Commander-in-Chief, the problems that have arisen, ways to address them, and the expected outcomes. Particular attention is paid to the competences of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, such as declaring a state of emergency or martial law and making decisions on the use of defense forces. As a result of the aforementioned constitutional amendments, the authority to make decisions on the use of defense forces has been entirely removed from the President’s powers, while the exercise of competences related to declaring a state of emergency or martial law is only possible in coordination with the executive branch. The study, analysis, and reasoned conclusions of the problematic issues provide an answer to the question of whether, under a parliamentary system and given the President’s limited powers, the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces can, if necessary, make decisions regarding the use of defense forces and independently declare a state of emergency or martial law without coordination with the government.
Green energies - the guarantee of Georgia's economic recovery
The Russia-Ukraine war represents the biggest geopolitical challenge for the whole world and poses a threat to everyone's well-being, especially Georgia, which is mostly due to geographical proximity and historical factors. It should also be taken into account that Russian businesses own a number of key assets of Georgia's infrastructure, Russia is constantly among our partners - it participates in the creation of all the main energy products, many of which determine the quality of our life (electricity, gas, oil products). The Russia-Ukraine conflict has undoubtedly revealed the potentially dramatic consequences of dependence on Russian energy products, even for such an integrated and highly developed market as the EU market. Thus, in order to prevent avoidable shocks, while reducing economic impacts on quality of life, it is essential that Georgian society and government understand exactly what risks they face and act accordingly. The article analyzes the risks in Georgia and presents recommendations based on the research.
Link between the Farmers' Age and Farm Engagement in Short Food Supply Chains: Empirical analyses of small and medium farms in the Czech Republic
The article aims to assess whether there is a link between the farmers' age and farm engagement in the short food supply chains (SFSC). We interrogate this link using the primary data from 172 interviews with small and medium farmers in the Czech Republic (99 participating and 73 not participating in SFSC). Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the responses. The results suggest an existing relationship between the age of farmers and engagement in SFSC. The young farmers are willing to participate in SFCS more when compared to older farmers. Nonetheless, the Cramer's V indicates a moderate association (0.192). Despite the Czech Republic being a post-communist country with specific social and economic conditions for SFSCs, the results showed consistency with most of the existing literature on the link between age characteristics of farmers and uptake of the SFSC strategy. Given that participation is influenced by age, the future policy design should consider more targeted outreach to older farmers, who may face informational or administrative barriers.
Economic Effects of Grape Subsidies in the Kakheti Region
As you know, the Kakheti region is the main place for viticulture and wine production in Georgia, and winemaking is a cultural and historical symbol of Georgia. Grape production and its processing into wine are of significant social and economic importance in Kakheti. Thousands of people are employed in the field of viticulture, and the income of many families and small farms depends on this sector. In such conditions, the subsidy policy implemented by the state becomes one of the important levers for stabilizing agriculture. The article discusses the goals, research results, problems and challenges of grape subsidies in Georgia. The role of subsidies in employment of the rural population, stabilization of incomes and stimulation of Georgian wine exports is analyzed. Both the positive aspects of the economic effects of grape subsidies (financial support for farmers, regional development, a sense of stability) and its negative consequences (pressure on the budget, disruption of natural market mechanisms, deepening dependence) are reviewed. The article also provides recommendations that were determined as a result of a survey of farmers and their many years of experience. As a resident of the Kakheti region and a farmer in the field of viticulture, I set myself the goal of conducting research and publishing a work that, on the one hand, will be based on empirical methods and the practice that we farmers have accumulated over the years, and on the other hand, I hope that the results of this research will help each grape farmer take the right steps and contribute to strengthening the country's economy, especially in terms of agriculture.
Prospects for Sustainable Development of the Georgian Economy
In recent decades, the global community has increasingly recognized the need for sustainable development as an important principle of economic progress. The concept of sustainable development includes the pursuit of economic growth while addressing environmental protection and social equity issues, thereby ensuring the well-being of present and future generations. The paper notes that the sustainable economic development of our country requires us to find new approaches to economic life, both in terms of production and consumption. It is important to look for new ways of economic efficiency in order to produce more with fewer resources and with less waste. Environmental protection requires new production processes, greater use of recyclable materials. In the article we analyze, that economic systems often prioritize short-term gains over long-term stability, which leads to unsustainable development that depletes natural resources, exacerbates inequality, and damages ecosystems. The many global challenges of sustainable development require collective action and international cooperation, yet political and economic interests often hinder the achievement of common goals. Given these challenges, the need for innovative solutions is more urgent than ever. The multifaceted nature of sustainable development requires concerted action and international cooperation, but political and economic interests often hinder the achievement of common goals. According these challenges, the need for innovative solutions is more urgent than ever.
Regulation of Financial Reporting Standards in Georgia for Small and Medium Enterprises in Relation to International Standards
International Financial Reporting Standards are the international global language of business relations, which allows any business entity to make its reporting easily understandable, understandable and comparable on an international scale. The transition and implementation of international financial reporting standards for small and medium-sized enterprises in Georgia is successfully underway, but the problem is that despite various multifaceted and extensive works, these issues are still a matter of discussion, debate and controversy. The main issues and approaches to increasing the reliability and transparency of financial reporting for small and medium-sized enterprises in Georgia have not yet been formulated as a final result. The main goal of the paper is to study and analyze the regulation of international financial reporting standards for small and medium-sized enterprises in Georgia. The scope of the Financial Reporting Standard for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, the assessment of accounting policies and the challenges through which financial statements demonstrate the accountability of top management for the management of small and medium-sized enterprises are analyzed.
Regulation of the Deposit Insurance System and Investment Portfolio Risk Management in Georgia
The deposit insurance system, both in different countries of the world and in Georgia, is a dynamic, stable and effective mechanism for socio-economic development. The introduction and improvement of the deposit insurance system was related to the strengthening of the financial security system of the state and the private sector, the protection of depositors and the prevention of systemic crises in the banking sector. Deposit insurance is a globally proven mechanism for depositor protection, which ensures the protection of deposits and, accordingly, depositors from the loss of deposits, and its main goal is to neutralize and mitigate the risks to banks in the event of an insured event. Accordingly, the main goal of the paper is to study and analyze the regulation of the deposit insurance system in Georgia and the management of investment portfolio risks, the mechanisms for reform management and its economic and financial effect. The deposit insurance system reform in Georgia has been implemented since 2018, taking into account the experience of international practice and the recommendations of the World Bank. The basic principles on which the investment policy of the deposit insurance risk portfolio is based are the most important factors determining the success of the system. However, the problem is that despite the sharing of international multilateral, theoretical and practical experience, this reform is still in the process of development and requires the formation of a final result. The investment policy of the deposit insurance risk portfolio provides the means and opportunities for its effective management and ensures the protection of deposits from various financial risks arising from insured events.
Analysis of Selected Parameters of Bottled Water in Poland
Water is essential for life. People use it in almost every aspect of their lives. Bottled water available on the market for consumption should be free from dangerous microorganisms and have a stable chemical composition. The presented study aimed to observe changes in selected water quality parameters in various conditions after opening a bottle of water. Four types of bottled water with different degrees of mineralization and carbon dioxide saturation were analyzed. The studies were performed according to the standards and procedures: PN-ISO 6059: 1999, PN-ISO 6332: 2001, PN-ISO 7150-1: 2002, PN-EN ISO 10523: 2012, PN-EN ISO 6222: 2004, Method 8149 – 1-(2-Pyridylazo)-2-Naphthol PAN Method. A microbiological analysis was carried out in terms of the total number of microorganisms at a temperature of 22˚C at different time intervals after opening the bottle. The analysis of statistical tests allowed for a comparison of different types of water in terms of its resistance to secondary microbiological contamination after opening the bottle, as well as for the formulation of conclusions regarding the time of storage of water in an open bottle, after which the water does not meet the quality requirements in the analyzed range. The tested waters were also subjected to physicochemical analysis. The total content of calcium and magnesium was determined using the titration method with EDTA, ammonium nitrogen, manganese and iron using the spectrometric method, pH was measured to check the water quality and whether the tested water meets the requirements contained in the Regulation of the Minister of Health of 31 March 2011 on natural, spring waters and table waters (Journal of Laws 01.85.466). The determined physicochemical parameters of selected bottled waters were intended to characterize and determine differences in the chemical composition of these waters and to demonstrate. The obtained test results were subjected to statistical analysis, calculating the arithmetic mean, median, dispersion, standard deviation and relative standard deviation. The conducted water analysis was compared with the results obtained for tap water in Tarnow, which were made available by Tarnowskie Wodociągi Spółka z o.o.
Artificial Model of Cerebral Stroke Induction
Cardiovascular diseases rank first among global health concerns, directly linked to healthy lifestyle practices, particularly nutritious diet and consumption of ecologically clean food products. For commercial purposes, various unhealthy chemical additives and pesticides have extensively infiltrated agriculture and the food industry, becoming causative factors for numerous diseases. These toxins facilitate the formation of substances most dangerous to the human body—oxidants (oxygen free radicals). Free radicals provoke and contribute to the development of ischemic heart diseases, myocardial infarction, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Cerebrovascular pathology of the brain represents a critical medical challenge due to its high mortality and disability rates. The aim of this research was to study an artificial model of cerebral stroke to improve the investigation of therapeutic agents for this pathology. Experiments were conducted on white rats using the photochemical thrombosis method. This technique involves the subcutaneous administration of a photosensitive dye (Rose Bengal) followed by local irradiation of the cerebral cortex with a halogen lamp. The interaction between the dye and light generates free radicals, which damage vascular endothelium, induce platelet aggregation, and ultimately lead to thrombosis of blood vessels. Histological examination revealed the development of a parabola-shaped lesion in the irradiated area extending to the subcortical white matter. Punctate hemorrhages, erythrocyte aggregates, and thrombi were observed in the blood vessels. Tissue examination demonstrated edema and degenerative changes in neurons. In the control group (irradiation without dye administration), no lesions were detected. The presented model is non-invasive, easy to implement, and enables the creation of infarction foci at virtually any location within the cerebral cortex. It closely resembles the natural clinical manifestation of stroke development and allows for the investigation of various pharmaceutical agents' effects on blood microcirculation, as well as their antihypoxic, anti-ischemic, and antioxidant properties.
The medical plant found in some regions of Georgia – Zmerkhli (Ruscus Hypophhyllum L)
Zmerkhli (Ruscus Hypophyllum L) is an evergreen shrub from the Asparagaceae family that can grow up to 60 cm tall. Although this plant is widely distributed according to its range, its population is small, and it has significantly decreased in recent decades due to the aforementioned factors. For this reason, Zmerkhli is rightly considered a plant on the brink of extinction, as indicated in the Red Book of the USSR, which suggests that it is necessary to prohibit the harvesting of this plant everywhere and to promote its propagation. In the past, an infusion of Zmerkhli was used to treat the uterus and as a uterotonic to help expel blood after childbirth. The seeds were groundused as a flower substitute. The fruit is edible, but due to its rather unappealing taste, it is consumed infrequently. Zmerkhli, Colchic Tagvisara (Latin: Ruscus colchicus), is a dioecious plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family. It is a low, rhizomatous, evergreen semi-shrub; the ultimate branches of the last shoots are transformed into leaf-like, large, leathery, glossy green, pointed, thornless phylloclades, with the lower ones opposite and the rest alternate. The fruit is red. It flowers and bears fruit from April to September. It is fairly widely distributed. It grows in lowland, mountain, and subalpine belt forests and shrublands. It is found in the western and, rarely, central parts of the Caucasus ecoregion. It is an endemic species of the region. In Georgia, it occurs in Abkhazia, Adjara, and Kartli. It is used in ornamental horticulture. Although this plant is widely represented in its range, its population is small and has sharply declined in recent decades.
Determination of atmospheric air pollution in the Tbilisi agglomeration using moss bioindicators
The paper discusses the ecological state of the atmospheric tank of the Tbilisi agglomeration, which I investigated using bioindicators of Sphagnum - white moss, which is the most sensitive to environmental pollution and which is rare all over the world. The biomonitoring method was used, special measures were taken to prevent pollution from glass, Teflon and steel materials. Monitoring was carried out for three months. The results of the study conducted in Tbilisi and Rustavi showed an increase in the amount of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: pyrene, benzoanthracene, benzaprene, phenols, nitrobenzene, dibenzofuran, pyridine, phthalates, alkylbenzenes, toluene, styrene, xylene, benzene, ethanol, benzaldehydes, acetophenone, benzoic acid and its esters, alkanes, stigmasterol, formamides, furans, furfural, n-hexadecanoic acid and its esters, which are harmful to human health: decreased lung function, poisoning, cancer development.
The Effect of Mineral Salts on the Antimicrobial Activity of Actinomycetes
This study aims to investigate the effect of different concentrations (from 1% to 5%) of mineral salts (NaCl, MgSO₄, CaCO₃, K₂HPO₄, KNO₃) on the antimicrobial activity of actinomycete strains (25, 57, and 124) in CPI-glucose nutrient media. To assess antagonistic activity, seven phytopathogenic bacteria were used in the agar disk diffusion method, and the diameter of the inhibition (sterile) zone was measured in millimeters. The results showed that salt composition significantly determines the antimicrobial properties of the actinomycetes. In particular, strain 57 exhibited high activity under optimal MgSO₄ concentration conditions, whereas its bioactivity was significantly reduced at elevated levels of K₂HPO₄ and NaCl. In the case of CaCO₃, no significant changes in activity were observed, while for the other strains (25 and 124) only minor differences were noted. The study highlights the importance of the chemical characteristics of the environment that directly affect the efficacy of antimicrobial agents and suggests the biotechnological realization of the biological potential of actinomycetes in agriculture.
Seasonal Dynamics of Solid Marine Debris Along the Batumi Coastline
The growing accumulation of marine litter has emerged as a serious global ecological challenge, exerting significant pressure on coastal and marine ecosystems. This study aimed to identify and evaluate the quantitative, morphological, and compositional characteristics of marine debris along a specific section of the Batumi coastline. The research further sought to classify the waste types and determine their primary sources. The study was conducted using the methodology developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for beach macro-litter monitoring (>5 cm) (Methodology, 2016). The surveyed area extended across coastal coordinates from 41°31'24.3"N – 41°32'47.8"E to 41°39'25.7"N – 41°38'33.8"E. Findings revealed that the dominant categories of waste included plastic, wood, metal, textile, rubber, and organic matter, with plastic comprising the highest proportion—40.6% of the total waste collected. The distribution of other waste types varied significantly across seasons. The primary sources of pollution were identified as urban runoff, polluted rivers, tourism-related activities, and transit transportation. This study underscores the substantial ecological and socio-economic impacts of marine debris, particularly its detrimental effects on tourism and fisheries. The findings highlight the urgent need for integrated coastal zone management strategies and transboundary environmental cooperation, offering an evidence-based foundation for sustainable marine and coastal ecosystem protection in the Black Sea region.
The Influence of Qvevri-aged Saperavi and Saperavi Elixir on the Organoleptic and Chemical Characteristics of Bread
This study investigates the migration and concentration of phenolic compounds in bread enriched with Qvevri-aged Saperavi wine and Saperavi elixir. The analysis focused on total phenolic content, proanthocyanidins, tannins, anthocyanins, catechins, and antioxidant activity. Following the incorporation of 30 mL of Qvevri-aged Saperavi wine and 30 mL of Saperavi elixir into the bread formulation, the total phenolic content reached 1,483 mg/L and 2,100 mg/L, respectively. Anthocyanin concentrations were measured at 912.8 mg/L in the wine-enriched bread and 602 mg/L in the elixir-enriched bread; proanthocyanidins at 391.2 mg/L and 600 mg/L; and catechins at 889.8 mg/L and 901 mg/L, respectively. Antioxidant activity was determined to be 94.8% in the wine-enriched sample and 90.9% in the elixir-enriched sample. Both types of enriched bread exhibited significantly elevated phenolic content and strong antioxidant potential. In addition to the distinctive Saperavi aroma and balanced tannin profile, the successful transfer of phenolic and other bioactive compounds contributes to the bread's enhanced nutritional value and functional properties. These findings suggest the potential of such products to serve as functional foods with prophylactic and preventive health benefits.
The Impact of Indigenous Yeast on the Formation of Key Chemical Parameters in Saperavi Wine
Twelve highest quality, classical red wines, all with protected designation of origin, are produced in Georgia from Saperavi grapes, which is a variety of ancient origin and broad significance. These wines are in high demand among both local and international consumers. However, despite their excellence, wines made from Saperavi cultivated in different micro-zones (terroirs) often show a noticeable uniformity in sensory characteristics. This has become a significant challenge for Georgian winemaking. According to enologists, one essential reason for this phenomenon is the widespread use of imported, commercially available dry yeast strains. To solve this issue, a research team from Telavi State University proposed developing and using indigenous cultured yeasts tailored to each specific micro-zone. This idea led to the creation of a fundamental scientific project, which in 2023 was awarded a three-year grant by the Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation of Georgia. This research represents an unprecedented groundbreaking effort in the country: the isolation and development — for the first time — of distinct pure strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, specific to each Saperavi-growing micro-zone, previously nonexistent as pure cultures. As part of the project, tailored starter cultures were developed for ten distinct micro-zones. These yeast cultures have been studied microbiologically and identified through DNA. Wines were produced using these newly isolated strains, and their key technological parameters — including alcohol content, titratable acidity, volatile acidity, and extract — are presented in this paper. In parallel, wines made from the same raw materials using commercial yeast strains were also analyzed, in order to compare their characteristics with those of the wines fermented using the newly developed local cultures.
Modern Sharecropping and Regenerative Agriculture Model for Social Innovation in Rural Areas: The Pilot Case of Kemaliye Village, Giresun
This article presents a pilot implementation of the “Modern Sharecropping and Regenerative Agriculture Model” developed under the coordination of the Giresun Governorship in Kemaliye Village, Türkiye. The project addresses the critical decline in hazelnut productivity due to aging rural populations and labor shortages, as well as the lack of professional agricultural care and youth involvement. A comprehensive farm analysis and orchard scoring system was applied to 14 hazelnut producers' lands, totaling 300 decares. Based on over 60 indicators—ranging from topography and soil quality to pest damage and yield history—a digital scoring software generated customized agricultural calendars and harvest-sharing offers for each landowner. In parallel, 240 young individuals were certified as hazelnut maintenance technicians through structured vocational training. A four-story abandoned village school was transformed into a multifunctional rural hub that now hosts a training center, women-led production areas, and guest accommodation. At the end of the project, the S.S.TEKFINDIK Women's Cooperative was established to maintain operational sustainability. This model, which combines traditional sharecropping logic with digital agriculture, vocational training, and social entrepreneurship, has created an integrated framework for rural revitalization. It demonstrates that local development is achievable when digital tools, professional labor, and cooperative governance intersect with community-based action.
Biological Features and Agricultural Significance of Origanum Vulgare
Georgia is a country with a moderate climate, and its unique geographical, climatic and soil conditions create a diversity of flora and provide the opportunity to cultivate valuable species, including medicinal, melliferous, dye, aromatic, poisonous and spicy plants. There are more than 4,100 species of vascular plants in the phytogenetic resources of the country, about 21% of them or about 900 species are endemic. The demand for medicinal, melliferous, dye, aromatic and spicy plants is increasing more and more, because of use of chemical preparations leads to complications (allergies, etc.). The compounds formed in the plant during the ontogenesis period are very important for the metabolic processes in the living organism. Therefore, taking herbal preparations is safe, simple and effective, because they do not cause allergic or other negative processes in the body. Therefore, the sustainable use of medicinal, melliferous, dye, aromatic, poisonous and spicy plants, including ethnobotanical skills, is very important and promising. The production of medicinal, melliferous, dye, aromatic and spicy plants will significantly increase the country's economic potential. Samtskhe-Javakheti is a region distinguished by biodiversity. Javakheti plateau and the Lesser Caucasus mountain system, as the center of evolution of many unique life forms, are an open-air museum of rich genetic resources. Vegetation research data of Samtskhe-Javakheti region are scarce.
Assessment of biogenic pollution caused by anthropogenic factors in the Iori River
The Iori River basin in eastern Georgia is in the Kakheti and Mtskheta-Mtianeti regions. Agriculture and the industrial sector are well developed here. Recreational facilities such as the balneological resort of Ujarma and the resort of Gombori are currently functioning. The Iori River is used for irrigation. Its water irrigates more than 90,000 hectares of the Iori Upland. The Iori River basin includes the Tianeti Municipality, Sagarejo Municipality, Dedoplistskaro Municipality, and partly the Sighnaghi Municipality. We conducted research on the Iori River in 2023-2024 seasonally in the territory of Sagarejo Municipality. We selected this point according to the following criteria: it is a densely populated area and includes the city of Sagarejo and 44 villages. Anthropogenic pressure is observed on the Iori River basin and its ecosystem. Since the content of biogenic elements accurately reflects the degree of pollution of water bodies by domestic and communal wastewater and fertilizers used excessively in agriculture, it is relevant to determine their individual forms NO2-, NO3-, NH4+, PO43- in the water of the Iori River, which are indicators of fecal pollution. The results of our seasonal research show that in the summer and autumn of 2023-2024, the ecological state of the Iori River at the point we selected is unsatisfactory. The impact of anthropogenic factors is indicated by the concentration of nitrogen-containing ions recorded in the Iori River. In the summer and autumn seasons of 2023-2024, the ammonium ion indicator exceeded the maximum permissible concentration. In 2023, its content was recorded in the summer at 0.552 mg/l, in the autumn at 0.693 mg/l. In 2024, the ammonium content in the summer was 0.489 mg/l, and in the autumn at 0.477 mg/l. The high concentration of ammonium observed in the water of the Iori River, in our opinion, is caused by the excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers in agriculture, biogenic elements washed away from farms, untreated domestic and communal wastewater, and illegal landfills on the riverbank.
Determination of Hg and Cd Content in Fish Samples from the River Khrami
The River Khrami, flowing through eastern Georgia's Shida Kartli region, is a vital water resource whose ecological condition has recently deteriorated. Pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic waste, threatens both its ecosystem and its usability. its tributary, the Mashavera, exacerbates the issue by introducing heavy metals into the Khrami, primarily due to a large polymetallic ore mining and processing enterprise in the Bolnisi municipality. Heavy metal pollution of the Khrami threatens aquatic animals and plant diversity also preventing the sustainable use of water resources. Heavy metal contamination, especially cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg) endangers aquatic biodiversity and hampers the sustainable use of water resources. Fish, being sensitive bioindicators, help assess ecological health, as heavy metals accumulate in their bodies due to their solubility in fat. In October 2024, we conducted research on local fish, using modern, EU-standard methods and equipment. The research revealed low concentrations of Cd and Hg in the fish, indicating that, despite ongoing anthropogenic pressures, the river water is not currently polluted with these metals and poses no significant threat to aquatic life. Although the water of the Khrami is not polluted with cadmium and mercury, and therefore does not threaten fish and other aquatic organisms, continuous eco-chemical monitoring is necessary to detect potential increases in heavy metal concentration. Such monitoring helps prevent future contamination that could lead to the poisoning of aquatic organisms, reduced biodiversity, and degradation of natural landscapes.
Some Rare Woody Plants in Kakheti Region
The paper discusses the growth and developmental characteristics of certain rare woody plant species introduced in the Kakheti region. The study focuses on the target species: Ginkgo biloba L., Cryptomeria japonica (Thunb. ex L.F.) Don., Pinus strobus L., Liriodendron tulipifera L., Quercus alba L., Quercus rubra L., Quercus suber L., Juglans nigra L., Firmiana platanifolia Schott et Endl., Gymnocladus dioica (L.) K. Koch, Sophora japonica L., and Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. The research examines their phenology and phenometry, flowering and fruiting periods, seed quality, drought and frost resistance, the duration of cambial activity in 1–3-year-old shoots, and summarizes the outcomes of acclimatization and adaptation processes. The results revealed that all studied species exhibit good growth and development, their annual developmental cycle includes all morphophysiological phases, they are not damaged by frost, they flower, bear fruit, and some even propagate naturally. It is recommended that these species be widely introduced both in natural habitats and in cultivated landscapes.
Modified Technology for the Production of Natural Grape Juice Using the Aseptic Method
A modified technology has been developed for storing natural grape juice using the aseptic method by partially changing some of the existing methods of aseptic juice preservation. This new approach maximally preserves all the beneficial chemical compounds found in grape juice, such as carbohydrates, organic acids, vitamins, and others. The following auxiliary materials were used during grape processing for this research: ICEZYM BIANCHI MP – an enzymatic preparation with pectolytic activity; LAFAZYM PRESS – a pectolytic enzyme used in the processing of white grapes; and LAFAZYM 600 XL – a pectolytic enzymatic preparation used for clarifying white must. Based on the research, the developed modified technology for producing natural grape juice using the aseptic method ensures the maximum retention of all beneficial chemical substances contained in the juice.
Mulching as a Measure for Increasing Crop Yields and Preventing Soil Erosion
The paper discusses the critical role of mulching as a modern agrotechnological practice in increasing crop yields and effectively combating soil erosion. It presents an analysis of various forms of mulching, such as organic and inorganic types, examining their specific characteristics and areas of application. Special attention is given to the positive impact of mulch on the physical and chemical properties of soil, including the maintenance of optimal moisture levels—which, according to research, can reduce irrigation water needs by up to 50%—and the regulation of soil temperature regimes. The importance of mulching in weed control is also discussed, with potential reductions in weed spread ranging from 70% to 90%, thereby decreasing the need for herbicides. The paper analyzes mulch's function as a protective barrier that slows erosion processes; studies show that mulching can reduce soil wash-off by more than 90%, particularly on sloped land. Additionally, the contribution of organic mulch to improving soil fertility is emphasized, through increased organic matter content, which may rise by 0.5% to 1% annually. The study highlights the multifaceted economic benefits of mulching, including yield increases ranging from 20% to 100%, depending on the crop, as well as its ecological importance in promoting the principles of sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture.
Ecotourism in the National Botanical Garden of Georgia
Human was born and developed in the bosom of nature. He is a child of nature and is its integral part. Along with the development of civilization, humans attitude towards nature and forms of relationship have changed. For many centuries, nature has had only a consumption value for human. That is why, human's consumer approach to nature has led to the depletion of natural resources, while the scientific and technological revolution and human's unconscious interference in the processes taking place in nature have led to a violation of balance. The time has come when all people of goodwill have felt the danger caused by carelessness towards the nature, therefore, we must make every effort to preserve Mother Nature and save the world from ecological disasters. One of the most important aspects of protecting Mother Nature is the development of ecotourism. Ecotourism is a form of sustainable tourism that is based on the protection of the natural environment, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. The Georgian National Botanical Garden is a prime example of ecotourism, where visitors have the opportunity to explore diverse plant collections, receive environmental education, and learn about the principles of nature conservation.
The Influence of Sulfitation on the Qualitative Indicators of Table White Wine
An effective method for regulating oxidative-reductive processes in grape must—and, consequently, the quality of the final product—is the use of oxidase inhibitors. Today, antioxidants such as sulfur dioxide, tannin-based preparations and ascorbic acid are actively used in winemaking to block oxidative enzymes. This study examined the influence of sulfitation regimes of grape must on the quantitative content of carbohydrates and acids, components of phenolic and aroma-forming complexes in wine materials, as well as on potentiometric characteristics. It was established that sulfitation of must serves as a tool for managing the fermentation process by altering the content of dry extract, glycerol, polymeric forms of phenolic compounds, aldehydes, acetic acid, and potentiometric parameters. The combined introduction of sulfur dioxide (75 mg/dm³) and ascorbic acid (60 mg/dm³) into the must facilitates the production of wine materials with low oxidative-reductive potential and reduced mass concentrations of aldehydes and acetic acid. The use of ascorbic acid during must sulfitation contributes to increased glycerol content and higher dry extract values in wine materials, which is a positive factor for the production of table wines. Analysis of the phenolic complex of test samples showed that increasing the concentration of added sulfur dioxide from 50 to 120 mg/dm³ led to a 13% increase in total phenolic content. The increase in polymeric forms of phenolic compounds reached 57%. This indicates the macerating effect of sulfur dioxide not only on phenolic compounds but also on oxidizing enzymes. In samples prepared with ascorbic acid, the mass concentration of phenolic substances was 13% higher than in the control variant. At the same time, no polymeric forms were detected in the experimental variant, and the mass concentration of procyanidins was 1.3 times lower compared to the control variant. These results confirm the reducing properties of ascorbic acid in relation to the oxidized forms of phenolic compounds.
Diversity and Ethnomedicinal Use of Medicinal Plants of the Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae L.) Family in Adjara–South Colchis
The present paper discusses the species diversity of medicinal plants of the Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae L.) family found in Adjara–South Colchis, as well as the aspects of their use in ethnomedicine. The systematic structure of the Lamiaceae species distributed in this region has been determined. Ethnobotanical data were studied, and valuable traditional remedies commonly known and effectively used by the local population were collected. The research was conducted using the traditional field expedition-excursion method, which included plant collection and identification, along with interviews with local residents based on a structured ethnobotanical questionnaire. Medicinal plants of the Lamiaceae family in Adjara–South Colchis are represented by 12 genera and 17 species. The genera Calamintha and Mentha each comprise three species; the genus Clinopodium includes two species; while the genera Glechoma, Lamium, Leonurus, Melissa, Origanum, Scutellaria, Salvia, Satureia, and Stachys are represented by one species each. All are perennial herbaceous plants, primarily rich in essential oils, which makes them widely applicable in medicine. The medicinal plants of the Lamiaceae family occurring in Adjara–South Colchis are traditionally used for the following conditions: Choleretic agents: Calamintha grandiflora, C. nepeta, C. officinalis; Sedative and cardiotonic agents: Leonurus quinquelobatus, Melissa officinalis, Mentha longifolia, Mentha aquatica, Satureia spicigera; Sedative and antihypertensive agents: Clinopodium umbrosum, C. vulgare, Origanum vulgare; Respiratory ailments: Glechoma hederacea, Satureia spicigera; Hemostatic agents: Lamium album; Gastrointestinal disorders: Mentha pulegium, Satureia spicigera, Salvia glutinosa; Chronic diarrhea: Satureia spicigera; Sedative agents: Origanum vulgare, Scutellaria galericulata; Anti-inflammatory agents: Stachys officinalis, Salvia glutinosa.
As we live in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (also known as Industry 4.0), which is rapidly transforming all production processes. The introduction of artificial intelligence technologies has inevitably changed the way goods and services are planned and produced. Perhaps the best word to describe Industry 4.0 is Digitalization, as it combines resources, information, and people using modern digital systems. As we know, historically, manufacturing was a field where people were taught to think like machines. However, with the advent of Digitalization, this approach has changed and now machines are quite successfully learning to think like humans. The article presents those areas (resource procurement, production itself, logistics, sales, marketing, quality management, planning, predicting equipment failure processes, etc.) where the world's leading companies use the achievements of artificial intelligence in one form or another, presents the positive aspects of its use (a) product quality, b) production process quality; c) production safety quality; d) production system management quality) and threats (high cost of implementing artificial intelligence; lack of experienced specialists; data quality) that business operators must definitely pay attention to, and also, we discuss the examples of several foreign companies.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Academic Writing and Research Methods Courses: A Teaching Model
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, including tools like ChatGPT, has transformed higher education by offering new forms of support for academic work. These tools assist graduate students in generating ideas, improving their writing, and conducting research more efficiently. However, such benefits come with concerns regarding academic honesty, particularly when students present AI-generated work as their own. This paper outlines a structured teaching model that incorporates AI into graduate-level Academic Writing and Research Methods courses while encouraging ethical and responsible use. Rather than replacing student effort, the model treats AI as a companion tool that enhances learning. Students are guided to use AI in the initial stages of their work—for brainstorming, outlining, and exploring ideas—while retaining ownership of the final content. Reflective assignments are used to help students examine their process and document their interactions with AI. A central feature of the model is AI literacy, which equips students with skills to critically evaluate the content generated by AI and validate it using academic sources. The integration of university library resources is essential to maintaining the credibility and depth of student research. By cross-referencing AI outputs with peer-reviewed materials, students strengthen their understanding of the subject and develop research competence. This pedagogical approach aims to promote thoughtful engagement with technology, preserve academic standards, and enhance key academic skills. The model supports instructors in designing learning activities that integrate AI meaningfully while fostering students’ intellectual development.
The education system plays a major role in the era of modern globalization, in the formation and development of a civilized society. Modern education, high-quality learning and the acquisition of relevant knowledge are social demands. This demand is met at each level by using various progressive methods. One of the important, progressive, and relevant methods of modern education is interactive learning. The article describes what is interactive learning? Interactive learning methods refer to types of activities that require a creative approach to the material and create conditions for the discovery of each student. Interactive learning is a holistic methodology that includes both online and offline components, which together create a complete educational experience. The article also describes the goals, objectives, methods and techniques, and means of interactive learning. The article provides examples of mini-research. The article shows that modern education increasingly emphasizes the importance of using interactive teaching methods, which allow for constructive interactions with pupils and students, stimulate their engagement, and promote more effective acquisition of knowledge.
Lexicography in the Digital Age ("The Georgian Dictionary")
"The Georgian Dictionary" is the first Learner’s dictionary of the Georgian language. It was published in 2014 by Bakur Sulakauri Publishing House. The dictionary is intended for everyone interested in learning the Georgian language or deepening and refining their knowledge. With its help, users can both adequately understand the meaning of a given word and use it appropriately in the correct context. The dictionary covers the active vocabulary of modern standard Georgian, while also taking into account colloquial language. It includes neologisms that have emerged in the language over recent decades as a result of the country’s social, political, economic and cultural changes. Definitions in the dictionary are presented in a clear and simple language. Lexical items that are less common or less active than the defined word are intentionally avoided in the definitions. The compilation of the dictionary is based on modern trends in lexicography. In addition to traditional sources, electronic text resources have also been utilized. A special computer program called "Lexicographer" was developed to support the lexicographic work using digital technologies. This software enables the preparation and publication of both printed and electronic dictionaries. Using the Lexicographer software was created the Electronic "Georgian Dictionary" – https://www.ganmarteba.ge (2019).
Native Language Teaching Problems and School Educational Reform
The article discusses the issues of Georgian language teaching in Georgian schools at the modern stage. Among the fields of linguistics, grammar issues are presented the most extensively in the national curriculum. This is natural, as the well-thought-out knowledge of grammar is the basis for the formation of proper spelling, punctuation and stylistic habits in students, which is ultimately aimed at improving their oral and written speech. Language classes at the basic level of school education must be given a separate academic hour. In fact, these will not be lessons of grammar, but of speech culture. But this does not mean at all that we should include material in the textbooks without taking into account the age characteristics of the student, overloading them with complex grammatical categories, which in many cases are disputed among linguists themselves; Let's endlessly confront the rules... What to teach and how to teach - this is one of the main and relevant issues in teaching the grammar of the Georgian language today.
USE RUBRIC IN TEACHING GEORGIAN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
The article is dedicated to the usage of self-assessment and peer-assessments. Creating rubrics and displaying them in classroom settings makes foreign language learning not only active but effective as well. That’s why designing language skills rubrics and introducing them to students maintains active learning as they (students) become mutual independent assessors of their knowledge and their mates’ abilities. As well rubrics give opportunities to parents to control and actively be involved in their children’s learning process.
STUDYING MORPHOLOGY ON A SYNTACTIC BASIS IN THE PROCESS OF TEACHING RUSSIAN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
When studying any language, not only dictionaries describing vocabulary are necessary, but also grammar as a set of rules of this language, allowing you to understand and construct sentences and texts in this language. A person studying any language constantly looks into grammar, mastering the rules of sentence construction in a particular language. These rules are presented as multi-step tasks associated either with recognizing a form and determining its meaning in context, or with creating such forms that would accurately express its intent and not violate the rules of sentence construction. The question of how to use grammar and in what dose has always caused controversy among teachers of the Russian language. One thing was certain: the combination of lexical and grammatical material creates the basis for studying the language. We can agree that the methodological skill of the teacher who has chosen a specific path of combining these two components is important here.
Speaking the Same Language? A Comparative Study of Student and Educator Reflections on Intercultural Communication in Physiotherapy Education
As physiotherapy becomes an increasingly globalized profession, the need to equip future practitioners with intercultural communication skills is critical. This study investigates how physiotherapy students and educators from five European countries perceive the development of intercultural communication competence through participation in the MOV-E project hybrid training program. The findings reveal a shared recognition of the importance of culturally responsive communication in clinical practice, but also notable differences in how students and educators assess the challenges. Students reported increased confidence in engaging with diverse patients, especially in scenarios involving disability, gender, and social norms. Educators highlighted more explicit integration of intercultural goals and greater scaffolding in hybrid delivery settings. Both groups identified non-verbal communication, empathy, and strategies for simplifying complex information as key areas of growth. However, gaps emerged in handling linguistic barriers and using interpreters effectively. The study underscores the value of structured, reflective learning to develop intercultural competence in physiotherapy and calls for more inclusive pedagogical designs that align student and teacher expectations across cultural contexts.
The impact of self-awareness on anxiety levels in students during the pre-exam period
Student life requires processing a large and complex amount of information, which is associated with the need for maximum concentration of internal resources. When experiencing anxiety, it becomes difficult to concentrate on a task (assignment) that demands intellectual effort, such as preparing for an exam. Anxiety can impair cognitive functions—thinking, memory, perception, and information processing—which leads to a decline in academic performance. Anxiety is experienced as a subjective feeling of emotional discomfort (an internal sensation) and is often related to external factors. It commonly arises in the following situations: academic-related anxiety during the learning process, anxiety related to self-perception, and anxiety stemming from interpersonal relationships. In order to create effective learning conditions, it is essential for the student to work on themselves, to support and stimulate the process of self-realization. For this, self-awareness is important so that students can better understand themselves and identify their own needs. High self-awareness means having a clear understanding of one's strengths and weaknesses, as well as emotions, which in turn improves self-development and self-control. For mental health, it is important to strengthen one’s strong qualities. Those who are aware of their strengths have healthy self-esteem and are better able to cope with difficult (anxiety-inducing) situations. They are more capable of overcoming various life challenges. Self-awareness (the recognition of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors) as a component of self-regulation promotes self-regulation itself, which involves the ability to control and manage our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in different situations. The goal of the research was to determine the relationship between students' self-awareness and their level of anxiety. Students from Telavi Iakob Gogebashvili State University participated in the study. Based on the research, certain conclusions were drawn and relevant recommendations were developed
Military Students’ Attitudes towards Using Cooperative Learning through Technology for Developing Writing Skills
Writing is an essential skill for military students for their future career development, as they have to take a high-stakes STANAG test to be promoted. Most military students struggle with grammar, organisation, and word choice. Thus, the purpose of the study was to investigate military students’ attitudes towards using cooperative learning through technology for developing writing skills to examine their readiness for the implementation of the above-mentioned instructional strategy to help them improve their writing performance. The study used a quantitative method. The data was gathered from the students’ questionnaire and was analysed descriptively. Participants of the study were 30 pre-intermediate, intermediate, and upper-intermediate military adult learners from the Language Training School of the Ministry of Defence of Georgia. SPSS 27 was used to analyse the data. The results of the study showed that the majority of Military students had positive attitudes towards using cooperative learning through technology.
Digital Transformation of Education: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Creation of Academic Papers
In recent years, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education particularly within the domain of academic writing has become a central topic of scholarly and pedagogical debate. The emergence of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT has profoundly transformed students' approaches to writing, influencing both the processes and outcomes of academic work. AI technologies can simultaneously support and hinder the development of writing competencies. On the one hand, they assist with idea generation, text structuring, language refinement, and access to relevant literature. On the other hand, they pose serious ethical and academic challenges, such as hidden plagiarism, ambiguous authorship, and the potential decline in students’ critical and creative thinking skills. This article critically examines both the advantages and risks associated with AI-assisted writing. It analyzes how students use AI to enhance grammar, style, argumentation, and interpretation of scholarly sources, while also discussing the implications of AI use on academic honesty, originality, and intellectual effort. The study reviews current practices, highlights the attitudes of academic institutions, and presents key viewpoints within the scholarly community regarding AI’s evolving role in higher education. Ultimately, the article emphasizes that AI can serve as a powerful tool for transformation only when it is used responsibly and reflectively by students who see it as a supplement to, not a substitute for, critical thinking, independent research, and knowledge construction.
Pedagogical Intuition and Progressive Vision: Aleksi Chichinadze's Contribution to the 19th-Century Georgian Education System
Aleksi Chichinadze was engaged in educational and pedagogical work in the schools of Kutaisi and Tbilisi, as well as at the Khoni Teacher Training Seminary. He supervised the educational activities of schools in Yerevan and the Tergi region. He was a dedicated and skilled educator, a tireless public figure, the author of numerous textbooks and didactic works, and an outstanding leader. Alongside his practical work, he was actively involved in methodological, theoretical, educational, and civic activities. His teaching and educational endeavors were grounded in progressive pedagogical principles. He devoted considerable time to the teaching and analysis of the Georgian language, literature, and traditions, to building cohesive teaching communities, and to the development of Georgian educational programs and curricula. His work, "Words at Dawn", is a significant pedagogical-didactic piece, a courageous statement for its time against the Tsarist educational regime. The publication represents a call for the transformation of national schools in alignment with the evolving demands of the era. Aleksi Chichinadze’s educational philosophy aligns with contemporary principles of education, particularly the learner-centered approach to teaching and learning. His methods emphasized the practical application of theoretical knowledge and encouraged the active participation of students, making his ideas highly relevant to modern educational standards. His holistic approach—which interconnected intellectual, physical, religious, and aesthetic education—remains vital in the context of the national curriculum, supporting the harmonious development of learners. Aleksi Chichinadze’s pedagogical views clearly illustrate that education should not be limited to the mere transmission of knowledge. It must also foster the moral, spiritual, and ethical development of the individual, preparing students to meet the challenges of civic life. His vision continues to be a source of inspiration and holds significant value for contemporary educational practice.
Georgian mythology contains a whole cycle of stories about demonic creatures and people close to them. In Georgian mythological representations and folklore, a tailless is a person who has become a devil or has been possessed by a devil, whose goal is to harm the world and those around him. According to folk texts, in order to eliminate misfortunes, it was necessary to neutralize the tailles. In the Middle Ages, a punitive institution was formed in Western European countries, which was called the Inquisition. There are a number of texts in Georgian folklore that make us think that a similar union to the European Inquisition must have existed in the Georgian folk tradition. Numerous stories about the detection and punishment of the have been preserved by oral tradition from various parts of Georgia. The theme of the persecution of the taillesses was also reflected in Georgian literature, in particular, in the works of Davit Kldiashvili and Niko Lortkipanidze. Based on the works of D. Kldiashvili and N. Lortkipanidze, we can conclude that there must have been a folk inquisition in Georgia, unofficially, in the folk tradition.
Philosophical and Psychological Aspects of Vazha-Pshavela’s Poems
Existential philosophy has deeply penetrated the realm of art. In the 19th century, fiction was particularly distinguished in this regard, as existentialism sought to explore the essence of human life. Existential thinkers devoted primary attention to understanding the nature of human existence. As such, fiction was philosophically closest to existential inquiry. Existentialists acknowledged the individual's solitude, abandonment in the world, and opposition to society. They also recognized both the conscious and unconscious human tendency to understand oneself, to discover the true self, and to attain freedom — which they regarded as the key to truth. Furthermore, they explored the methods through which an individual could achieve this goal. These issues are directly related to psychology, as understanding human nature — especially the unconscious — represents a profoundly complex challenge, one that literature often strives to address. It is also acknowledged that realism contributed to a deeper exploration of human existence. Many agree that fiction, through artistic imagery, conveys the inner processes of the human soul in a more precise and emotionally resonant manner than the dry, categorical language of scientific disciplines. The new Georgian literature of the 19th century, in addition to addressing everyday social issues, also devoted considerable attention to similar existential concerns. In this context, Vazha-Pshavela stands out as a writer who transformed the problem of human existence into the subject of artistic expression. In Georgian literary criticism, Vazha-Pshavela has received relatively little attention as an existentialist writer. Yet the early stages of existential thought can be found in earlier Georgian literature. For example, the works of Romanticists abound with existential themes. It may be said that they laid the groundwork for the more comprehensive development of this problem in later periods. This paper examines certain aspects of this issue that establish a parallel with existential philosophy. It is also noteworthy that many conclusions later formalized as categories by existential philosophers had already appeared in artistic form in the works of Vazha-Pshavela. These include themes such as human solitude, alienation from the world, profound spiritual crisis or transformation, and the discovery of the true self. The subject of this study is dedicated to exploring these very issues.
Vazha Favela's genius is primarily manifested in his defense of the interests of his native people, in his powerful original representation of their ethical and aesthetic values. Throughout his life, Mgosani, along with his literary work, was engaged in hard physical labor. His respect and love for representatives of his own class, hatred for oppressors, and the carving of the national spirit associated with this fact are obvious. Vazha's literary heritage opens up in many aspects for different readers and eras. The first thing we feel when we are near him is the inexhaustible potential of intellectual energy, a strange force that has fought with a peculiar boldness against the greatest questions of humanity: "What is around me? Who am I? What is life? How is all this created?" To ask these questions and try to answer them within the limits of your own competence, you must be both an artist and a philosopher. So much has been said about Vazha's artistic thinking that we have nothing more to add, let me only add that his work offers us much more than the finished philosophical systems of many thinking societies. Researchers of Vazha-Pshavela's poetry do not hide that the first impression they get from Mgosni's artistic world is one caused by a heroic, courageous spirit. "His lyrics are courageous, the heroes of his poems, the mountain landscape... so dramatically moving and so wonderfully combined with literary heroes," says Geronti Kikodze about Vazha. And indeed, perseverance and courage are one of the strongest motifs of Vazha's poetry.
Mikheil Javakhishvili’s Theatrical Writings
Mikheil Javakhishvili occupies his deserved place in Georgian literature, first of all, as a prose writer. Unfortunately, his journalistic, literary-critical heritage has been little studied. In particular, there is rarely a scientific discussion of that part of his letters and reviews where the issues of the stage and theater are analyzed from a theoretical and practical perspective. Javakhishvili’s theatrical works, within the framework of which he conducts a systematic discussion of the theatrical events at that time and a critical analysis of the development in dramaturgy, represent the most important primary source, both for studying the process of formation in national theatrical thought, and for a complex understanding of the Georgian cultural past. Mikheil Javakhishvili’s letters are examples of deep critical analysis, where special attention is paid to the professionalism of the actor, as well as to the multifaceted aspects of acting and stage transformation. The author carefully discusses the peculiarities of role interpretation and the integration of the director’s vision into the performance. At the same time, his critical letters often expose the weaknesses of Georgian dramaturgy - artificially constructed dialogues, superficial and templated plot lines. An analysis of Mikheil Javakhishvili’s theatrical letters reveals that his interest goes beyond the simple assessment of theater as a spectacle and is directed towards the essential importance of theater as a national and cultural phenomenon. Javakhishvili's letters and short reviews establish a tradition of theatrical criticism that encompasses both national consciousness and the understanding of European theatrical heritage.
Georgian-Language Religious Literature Published in Israel - Abraham Mamistvalov
Jews have lived in Georgia for many centuries. In the 1970s of the 20th century, they began a mass repatriation (“aliyah”) to their historical homeland—Israel. The initial years of this “aliyah” were characterized by severe economic and social problems for Georgian Jews. To settle in a new country, they had to overcome linguistic and everyday challenges. Despite these difficulties, Georgian Jews successfully engaged in literary activities. Works of various genres and themes were produced in the Georgian language, the acquisition and study of which are necessary for a complete presentation of Georgian-Jewish literary relations. Also interesting is the linguistic and literary study of Georgian-language publications produced in Israel, which can reveal similarities and differences, linguistic features, and innovations in literary expression methods that may be due to changes in residence and social environment. In Georgian-language literature published in Israel, religious works are of particular importance. Jews, wherever they lived, considered religious faith and the observance of religious obligations to be a sacred duty that saved this nation from destruction. While living in Georgia, they resided in separate neighborhoods, built synagogues, prayed, and strictly observed the rules and traditions of the Torah. In Israel, Georgians continue their traditional religious life, although they have more opportunities to enhance their religious awareness in the Promised Land alongside fellow Israelis. This was facilitated to some extent by Georgian-language religious works published in Israel, as most Georgian Jews knew only Georgian perfectly. Various types of religious works were published in Israel, including books of the Bible, elementary issues of the Torah, prophetic passages, basic prayers in Hebrew, information about prominent rabbis and Talmid khakhamim in the Georgian Jewish community, translations of prayers and mitzvot, explanations of the attributes and theology of Judaism, discussions of Judaism in modern conditions, halakhic rules in Georgian (שֻׁלְחָן עָרוּךְ), and more. Several books by the writer Abraham Mamistvalov have a religious nature, which are examined and characterized in this article, along with prayers, explanations, and notes. After analyzing the texts, it is noted that the religious aspect is particularly prominent and significant in the multi-thematic and multi-faceted work of Abraham Mamistvalov, represented by both translated and original works. The writer's goal is to assist representatives of the Georgian-speaking community in Israel in preserving and enriching their religious consciousness with practically applicable books and to facilitate the observance of customs and rituals established over centuries.
Some Aspects of Documentary Narration in 20th Century Fiction
The public's lively interest in Soviet literary processes has not waned to this day, which is a clear challenge for critics to fundamentally analyze how the reality of Sovietization was reflected in works of fiction. In terms of national identity, Georgian society is characterized by ambiguity. They have the same desire and goal, but in their pursuit of the goal, they move in a stream, stop, move, stop, and sometimes deviate from the path. This process is determined by political, historical, and geographical factors. The joy of the independent Georgian flag as a symbol of national identity was replaced by the Soviet red flag as a new ideological relic. The most severe was the destruction of the achievements of 1918. The tragedy of 1921 gave rise to two main currents in literature: the writers who were in favor of Sovietization, or proletarian writing, and the disillusioned writers who were deprived of creative freedom by the regime. Special importance should be given to writing created with documentary accuracy, with a slight hint of feelings, emotions, and artistry. In this paper, we will focus on Nikolo Mitsishvili's documentary prose "February", Konstantine Gamsakhurdia's short story "Great Joseph", and Kolau Nadiradze's poem "February 25, 1921". Mitsishvili's work is significantly distinguished by its documentary nature. He even has an article titled "Documentary Prose," in which he expresses the position that the contemporary situation forces writers to write only about real, unadorned life, because, in his own words, "a true story is better than a fictional story." Although the documentary genre has still not gained a foothold in our country, it is worth noting that its attempt is associated with the name of Nikolo Mitsishvili. Undisguisedly conveying historical reality in literature and writing is a great risk and courage, but it is extremely important, like a lullaby for a baby or a fairy tale for a child, because words affect people like a bomb and drag them into their bosom. The general reader should perceive the narrative discussed here as lessons from the past and connect history to the challenges of contemporary life.
For the creative portrait of David Turdospireli
In the literary heritage of Davit Turdospireli, we find very interesting examples of miniature prose. Among the creators of Georgian short prose, he is a writer with his own voice. In Turdospireli's short prose works, along with a number of features characteristic of the genre specificity, the stylistic manner of the writer is interestingly revealed. His miniatures are distinguished by the individuality of the narrative. First of all, what attracts the reader's attention is the pale epic embroidery of the miniatures, which is entirely built on mood. The writer's spiritual feelings are conveyed with amazing lyricism and high artistic skill in a variety of original tropical speech. The poetics of Davit Turdospireli's miniatures are often fueled by the writer's insatiable spiritual pain, which his difficult life left him with as a constant companion. The pessimistic feelings caused by his difficult life did not only permeate Davit Turdospireli's autobiographical memories, but also infused a sad mood into the writer's literary heritage. Especially in the short prose works created in the first half of the twentieth century, which interestingly present the writer's literary portrait. Despite the strict canons of short prose, Davit Turdospireli manages to convey subjective feelings to the reader with rare writing skill; directness and sincerity are the characteristics of his artistic thinking. The artistic space of Davit Turdospireli's miniatures is boundless. The writer takes us on a journey through the past and the present almost simultaneously, and no matter how surprising it may be, he almost always finds spiritual closeness with the "withered leaves", "fog", "abundant night", "dying autumn flowers", "autumn twilight", "sad night". The writer, despite everything, does not give in to pessimism, looking with the eyes of hope at the sight that has crept into the bosom of the soul like a breeze to whisper the tale of eternal spring. The fairy tales of the Ankara stream flowing from the mountain peaks on the airy mists of the sky hope for the fulfillment of magical, dreamy dreams. Already the human race also hopes and warns man, the face of life and love, not to treat spring with disdain, perhaps thanks to it he can somehow save his faith in existence.
The Idea of National Freedom and the Crisis of National Consciousness in Georgia in the Second Half of the 19th Century
The 19th century in the Georgian nation’s history stands out with entirely new political, social, and psychological aspects. The literary and social-political thought of the second half of the 19th century was shaped by the group of “Tergdaleulebi,” who entered the public arena in the 1860s under the leadership of Ilia Chavchavadze. Their main goal was to unite the Georgian nation into a single organism, to revive the national spirit and to form national and state consciousness. Thanks to their efforts, the new Georgian literature was able to present national and social ideals in the form of a well-defined concept and to use them as a conscious program for the fight of the Georgian people. The idea of national freedom and the ethical ideal became the central axis of literary and social-political thought in Georgia in the second half of the 19th century. The actualization of national history and the expansion of its role was one of the most important features of the “Tergdaleulebi” concept. The “Tergdaleulebi” sought to instill faith in national energy within the people. However, despite their efforts, nihilism remained strong within a segment of Georgian society, which led to the erosion of national consciousness. National consciousness was negatively affected by historical realities — particularly the developments beginning in the 16th century, when Georgia fragmented into separate kingdoms and principalities. Nevertheless, the very foundations of national consciousness — linguistic unity, religious integrity and culture — were preserved. In 19th century Georgian thought, Akaki Bakradze points to the struggle between two currents — hope and nihilism. Among the nihilists, a crisis of national consciousness is clearly evident. The analysis of the views of Giorgi Mukhranbatoni and Ivane Jabadari clearly illustrates this phenomenon. In their works, the history and culture of Georgia are falsified. The idea of national freedom proved so powerful in Georgia during the second half of the 19th century that it overcame nihilism and transcended the crisis of national consciousness. Under the leadership of Ilia Chavchavadze, the “Tergdaleulebi” succeeded in restoring the Georgian people's sense of national identity, reviving the national spirit and forming national and state consciousness. The central axis of Georgia's literary and social-political thought in the second half of the 19th century was the idea of national freedom and the ethical ideal.
Apple in the Pagan Culture of Georgians and Other Peoples
This article presents the symbolism of the apple in the folklore of various nations, including Georgians, and discusses its connection with people's beliefs, ideas, and customs. The customs, myths, and legends of Georgians, Yezidis, Britons, Romans, Phrygians, Indians, ancient Greeks, Kyrgyz, Persians, Russians et cetera, information preserved in the Old Testament, ancient Hebrew Haggadah and medieval, ancient Greek and Jewish poetry is analyzed. The article discusses two opinions. According to one suggestion, an apple appears in folk beliefs and customs by chance, not as an apple as particular plant species, but as an abstact fruit, symbolizing fertility and abundance. Based on a comparative analysis of the data, presented in the current artikle, we advocate opposite suggestion, that apple does not appear by chance, but rather plays its specific simbolic role in the beliefs, customs, and myths of various nations, including Georgians.
Circe’s Song: Path to Self-Awareness and Self-Empowerment in Madeline Miller’s “Circe”
Madeline Miller’s Circe is a captivating reimagining of the ancient mythological figure who is best known from Homer’s Odyssey. Unlike the traditional depictions of Circe as an enchantress who tempts and manipulates men, Miller’s novel converts her from a minor sorceress to a powerful symbol of self-awareness and empowerment. In the novel, Circe is illustrated as a multifaceted protagonist on her transforming path of self-awareness and empowerment. The present study looks at how Miller depicts Circe's journey to self-discovery, emphasizing the internal and external struggles that define her character. Miller's use of Circe as a symbol of metamorphosis provides a captivating narrative, making the novel an essential contribution to modern readings of classic heroines. The current paper dives into Circe's journey of self-awareness and discovery, investigating how she goes through a transformation from a marginalized nymph to an autonomous and self-possessed sorceress representing female empowerment and resilience. It contributes to current concerns about feminist mythmaking and the changing role of female characters in literature.
The Purpose of the “New Language” of Poetry in the Theoretical-Aesthetic Concepts of P. Celan and I. Bachmann
The paper outlines the distinctive features of post-war German lyrical poetry and the poets’ union “Group 47,” which laid the foundation for a new theoretical perspective and literary style. The paper analyzes the significant theoretical works of Ingeborg Bachmann and Paul Celan. Special attention is focused on Celan’s theoretical-aesthetic concept as articulated in “The Meridian” (“Der Meridian”), a vision wholly shared by Ingeborg Bachmann. The research explores the central issues of the theoretical-aesthetic concepts of Celan and Bachmann, such as the function and purpose of lyrical poetry, the specificity of poetic language, the poet's relationship with reality, and the philosophical influences on the poet’s creative work etc. The study determines that the rejection of old literary traditions by these poets stemmed from their desire to create a “new language” with a new mode of expression. In their lyrical poetry, this goal is realized through the use of cryptic expression, laconicism, the rejection of punctuation, the breaking of rhyme and violation of syntactic rules. The “new” lyrical poetry is also characterized by the abundance of metaphors, allegories and symbols; a verse line structure; free rhythm; weakening of the function of the lyrical “I” and a direct “dialogue” with the reader. Typical features of Celan’s “hermetic” lyrical poetry include: “mysterious codes” and allusions to specific Biblical narratives and figures, a pessimistic thematic approach, and the frequent use of adjectives denoting dark colors. The opposing motifs embodied in the poetry of Celan and Bachmann—protest and silence, good and evil, death and life—are in direct correlation with the issues of post-war philosophy, which also heavily emphasizes melancholy, alienation, fear, spiritual crisis and emptiness. The existential philosophies of Ludwig Wittgenstein and Martin Heidegger have had a particularly strong influence on the poems and theoretical writings of Paul Celan and Ingeborg Bachmann.
The Protagonist’s Suicide: Moral or Social Collapse? (Leo Kiacheli’s “Princess Maia”)
The paradoxical nature of suicide's social impact has been repeatedly noted not only in scientific discourse but also within literary texts. So-called common sense considers suicide an utterly irrational act; however, it may be driven by a multitude of causes, making it impossible to unite under a single explanatory phenomenon. In literature, suicide can be interpreted as a form of protest, often resulting from an individual's incompatibility with the external world — a reaction to a specific (sometimes personal) life circumstance, although one that is frequently intensified or conditioned by broader social factors. As such, suicide lacks a clear narrative definition due to its multifactorial origins. Nonetheless, every act of self-destruction — despite its individualistic (sometimes selfish) nature — shares a common cognitive foundation: hopelessness. This is often linked to religion and patriotism and is predominantly viewed as both anti-religious and antisocial. It is typically accompanied by the subject’s suffering and a paradoxical perception of time. Suicidal motifs trace a persistent thread through world literature. However, beginning in the last century — in the context of the technocratic and modernist era, alongside war, the disintegration and reevaluation of values — the desire to voluntarily withdraw from the world has intensified under the condition of existential alienation, and this, too, is reflected in literature. This tendency has become increasingly visible in Georgian literature as well, particularly in the works of Egnate Ninoshvili, Shio Aragvispireli, Chola Lomtatidze, Grigol Robakidze, Konstantine Gamsakhurdia, Niko Lortkipanidze, Leo Kiacheli, and others. In this paper, we will analyze this phenomenon through the lens of Leo Kiacheli’s short story “Princess Maia,” focusing on how the protagonist’s existential condition, inner world, and psychological portrait are framed within the context of her suicide.
For the History of Ritualistic Practices in the Caucasus
This article examines several calendar customs practiced by the peoples of the Caucasus, particularly those involving door-to-door processions. Folkloric and ethnographic observations reveal that such customs across the region share similar structures and content. Notably, the participants in these processions consistently requested food rather than other gifts — a detail that points to the rituals’ connection with fertility cults. One of the earliest and most prominent of these rituals is khnuli, typically held in spring and involving the entire village. The process featured spell-like chants intended to bring about desired outcomes. Among the most elaborate spring festivals was Berikaoba, a multi-day celebration with numerous episodes designed to invoke the rebirth of nature and promote agrarian prosperity. Characterized by its dramatic elements, Berikaoba is closely associated with the fertility cult. Over time, the door-to-door rituals incorporated improvisational performances, masks, and other theatrical devices. Participants often wore goat or sheepskin garments, likely remnants of older ritualistic symbolism tied to invasion motifs. Across the Caucasus, leather garments were symbolically linked to fertility deities — a connection supported by archaeological discoveries, wall paintings, and depictions of sheep and goats in material culture. Both in Georgia and the North Caucasus, these door-to-door customs were documented and studied during the 19th and 20th centuries, at which point they had acquired an entertaining and often comic character. Yet, even in their grotesque forms, they retained traces of ancient fertility rites. The shared structure and symbolic elements of these rituals underscore the common worldview and cultural unity of the Caucasian people
Examples of artisric decoration of European manuscripts
Medieval Europe inherited from antiquity the external form of the manuscript - the form of a book interwoven with scrolls and notebooks, which were widely used for compiling deeds and business documents. The development of cities in the life of Europe and, first of all, Italy in the 11th-15th centuries introduced a wide variety of documents. Originals of deeds signed and certified by a seal have come down to us. A greater number of copies are found in special capitulars, clerical registers and notarial minutes. A large number of scientific treatises tell about the intellectual life of medieval society. Humanists founded the most famous schools in Europe in Italy, where in the 13th-15th centuries they established courses for master calligraphers to copy books. One of the most famous calligraphers among the humanists was Petrarch. In addition to copyists, there were numerous groups of writers in the cities who drafted and formalized documents. They were called clerks, or notaries. The notary first drafted a working version, then copied it onto a piece of parchment, put his signature and a special mark called a paragraph. If the document concerned a business transaction, then witnesses were present at its drafting and confirmed it with their own signatures, and then they would certify it with a seal. As cities and administrative institutions grew, the number of notaries also increased. Every chancellery had its own notary. One of the oldest chancelleries was the papal chancellery. The numerous documents drawn up here were examples of symbols of both ecclesiastical and secular nature. In the 11th and 12th centuries, documents were written mainly on papyrus and parchment (wax was rarely used), and in some cases on paper. Papyrus, which was made from the pulp of the papyrus plant, was produced mainly in Egypt; after the Arabs conquered Egypt in the 7th century, it became difficult to import papyrus to Europe. The Merovingian kings wrote documents on papyrus until the second half of the 7th century, and the popes until the end of the 11th century.
Bearer of Goodness and Prophet of Free Georgia
The paper discusses one of the most difficult periods, which turned the European people towards a new democratic way of thinking and set them on the path to forming a democratic society. Unfortunately, this period became a time of absolute destruction of Georgia's political independence. In the 1860s, the majority of Georgian students studying at Russian universities already saw the future of not only their own country but also humanity in general in a completely different way. They dreamed of the formation of a future European-type democratic society. Although they took different paths to achieve this, the fact is that in the 1860s, student youth saw their future work in serving the people, and this service was reflected in the democratization of society. The primary goal of the new generation was to prepare society for the adoption of new thinking, democratic thinking. The paper discusses the merits of the “Tergdaleulis”, whose contribution can be attributed to raising the national liberation movement in Georgia and the Caucasus in general to new heights and closely linking it with the processes of democratization of society. The paper highlights a new presentation and understanding of the main aspects of Giorgi Tsereteli’s work. From a modern perspective, Giorgi Tsereteli can be seen as one of the founders of new democratic thinking, as a political figure, because he actively intervened in the political life of his homeland and the processes taking place in the Caucasus region. He was exposed to national thought from an early age. Ekvtime Tsereteli wrote: “Giorgi’s ideal was Western Europe; he was convinced that our life was going in a European way and spared no effort and talent to awaken people and show them their inclinations.” Khomleli credited Giorgi Tsereteli with developing Western European literary tendencies in Georgia. In his words, “Giorgi Tsereteli, unlike Ilia Chavchavadze and other writers of Eastern Georgia, was brought up on the traditions of European literature.” He grew up on the novels of Flaubert and Balzac and then traveled to Europe to immerse himself in European literature and culture. We should consider the work of Giorgi Tsereteli precisely in terms of preparing the next generation for democratic changes, because, first of all, the formation of the first dignity in them and imbuing them with respect for other individuals, as citizens, was the main goal of Giorgi Tsereteli as a teacher. Giorgi Tsereteli had to leave only the aspiration for freedom from the “old directions”. Here, Giorgi Tsereteli’s main value, “national freedom”, a value that does not change over time, was clearly outlined. The paper concludes by presenting that in the second half of the 19th century, the foundation for a cultural and educational movement was laid through the efforts of the “Tergdaleulis”, whose work determined not only the development of the 19th-century literature and public opinion, but also influenced the development of the 20th-century literature and public opinion. Their views and aspirations towards Europe echo today and are relevant in the 19th century. The writer, a bearer of goodness, devoted his entire life to public activity. The writer was valued for his unusual sense of contemporaneity, which makes the writer's work valuable in general.
Aspects of 19th-Century Literary and Societal Thought
19th-century Georgia stands out for events of profound significance in determining the fate of the country. These events are perceived in different ways by Georgian writers, and despite differences of opinion, their contributions to the development of Georgian literary and societal thought are considerable and important. Analyzing the lives and works of each figure reveals the notion that the diversity of thought is influenced by multiple factors: primarily, the era itself – the various periods of the 19th century in which they lived, shaped by the prevailing socio-political context – as well as their social origins, which also become a defining factor in the mindset of each Georgian public figure. In the first half of the 19th century, one central issue dominated: the annexation of Georgia by Russia—a concern that troubled and united all public figures of the time. The path of resistance during this period manifested through uprisings and the conspiracy of 1832, representing an armed struggle aimed at restoring Georgia’s independence. After the failure of the 1832 conspiracy, the situation began to change. Although the struggle for Georgian independence remained an issue, it gradually moved to the background. This shift was largely influenced by the growing dominance of the Russian Empire in all spheres of Georgian life. It is also noteworthy that not all public figures perceived the existing situation in the same way. To understand the nature of societal thought, their evaluations of key events are especially important – such as the so-called "struggle between fathers and sons," which involved debates over literary movements and the literary language, the Caucasian War, the issue of serfdom, social revolutions, and the political orientation of the country. On the social and economic front, we see conflicts emerge between the Sixtiers (the 1860s generation) and the Populists, and later among the representatives of the first, second, and third groups of the Tergdaleulebi (Russian-educated Georgians), each holding differing political views. Thus, for the writers and public figures of the second half of the 19th century, national and social issues were of paramount importance – closely tied to questions of language and literature. The slogan of the Sixtiers, "Homeland, Language, Faith," became a unifying formula for the identity of all of Georgia. Literature emerged as a powerful force that reflected reality, awakened national sentiment, voiced social problems, and shaped public consciousness.
Historical, archaeological, folkloric, and ethnographic materials, literary sources, and accounts by both Georgian and foreign chroniclers confirm that Georgians have been outstanding competitors since ancient times. The history of Georgian sports begins in Classical Antiquity — a period to which belong the earliest artifacts and materials depicting specific types of sport. Archaeological excavations across Georgia have unearthed weapons from different eras, the use of which required physical strength and training. In historical reality, physical exercise was tied to warfare and labor. According to Greco-Roman and later Georgian sources, Georgian tribes were remarkable warriors, trained in horsemanship, archery, and the casting of arrows during hunts. With the development of Georgian literature, it is only natural that significant information about martial and hunting traditions has been reflected in literary texts. Notably, literary texts often influence readers more than the dry facts presented by historians. While writers study the environment and era they depict, they frequently embellish situations with fantasy and legend, leaving lasting impressions that lead readers to accept the portrayal as unquestionable truth. Thus, a literary text not only reflects reality; it influences it. The revival and restoration of ancient martial traditions have been based on both historical and literary sources. Historians — including sports historians — often rely on fiction as a valuable resource. Examples from Rustaveli, Alexander Orbeliani, Vazha-Pshavela, Alexander Kazbegi, Akaki Tsereteli, and Konstantine Gamsakhurdia confirm that, unlike historians, writers aim not for technical detail, but for symbolic meaning — with the depiction of sports competitions typically serving to advance the plot.
Fictional text and chronicles of the life of Abkhazian Muhajirs from Batumi to Adapazari (Anzor Kudba's story “The Road”)
Anzor Kudba is a descendant of the Abkhazian emigrants who settled in Adjara in the mid-19th century. The writer’s novels and stories reflect the problems of previous eras and modern Georgia, as well as the difficult spiritual world of a person faced with these problems. The story “The Road” was published in the collection “The Symphony of the Great Rain” published in 2015; this story concerns the lives of the descendants of the Abkhazian emigrants, including the Abkhazians of Batumi. The narrative of the story is based on fragments of oral histories. The artistic interpretation of reality is presented with light emotion, without excessive detailing. It is as if the author is trying to portray to the reader images of the past as they have survived in real life in the memory of generations. Accordingly, the volume and function of artistic fiction are minimized. In “The Road”, the author himself tells the story of the Abkhazians of Batumi, and specifically the Kudbas. In this case, the setting, time, and, mainly, the story itself are real. The narrator tells us about his ancestors and his life. More precisely, he introduces us to individual fragments of this life. The time and space of the fragments are not uniform, but nevertheless, we can talk about an orderly composition and a logical sequence of expression of what is said. The story of the Kudba’s emigration begins in the 1960s with three brothers. Two of them settled in the village of Peria in Adjara, and one turned his head towards Turkey and settled in the village of Karadere in the Adapazari province. The descendants of the brothers who remained in Batumi and fled to the Ottoman Empire found each other only at the end of the 20th century, retold their story, and restored their relationship. The emotional background of the story is also created by chronicles of contemporary relations between Georgians and Abkhazians. The writer tries to objectively weigh the movement of the souls of the participants in the tragedy, to pour the truth into artistic faces. The echo of the mentioned thematic arcs is also visible in ,,The Road”. Obviously, this greatest pain of our era is not alien to the Abkhazians in Turkey.
Transnational and Interdisciplinary Aspects in the Phenomenon of Ancient and Modern Medea
Medea, an outstanding character of the ancient Greek mythology, destroyed the boundaries of location and highly exspressed nationalism, and was formed as an archetype of the world culture. Continuous pluralism of Aiets's daughter cut the edges completely and became an interdisciplinary phenomenon. Medea became a subject of interest for literature, music, art, sculpture, cinematography, theatre, history, archaeology, astronomy, phsycology, geography and medicine. The character of Medea, that is contradictory enables us to do a research with the aspects of trans-nationalism since antiquity up to the contemprorary era. According to the myth, Medea is a granddaughter of the God of Sun, Helios, a daughter of the king of Kolchi - Aiet and Ida ( Hesiod. Theog. 958) or the goddess Hekate (Diod, 4. 45), first a wife of Jason and later of the King of Athens- Aegeos. She was adored in Greece. They built temples and sang songs for her. Euripides made Medea's character as a killer of her own children ( Euripides "Medea" 431 B.C.). Paradoxically, she became more and more popular, closer and inspirational across ages in many countries. Comparative literature methodology enables us discuss Medea with many aspects, how it was shown in many ganres, languages and nations, in different countries and epochs.
“The Epic of Gilgamesh” is a universal text. The incorrigible hero of the Sumerian epic tries to penetrate the entire and harmonious world. To what extent is he ready for this? This artistic-philosophical paradigm underlies the text. Therefore, “The Epic of Gilgamesh” is an epistemological text, a part of the logos and mythic culture. The mystery of getting to know the world in the text is paradigmatic. In general, the entire text of the Epic of Gilgamesh is paradigmatic. Gilgamesh’s goal is “deification”, ascending the spiritual ladder, transforming into a superhuman. With “getting to know” begins the fall of man, the loss of the Garden of Eden and eternal life. Thus, the main enigma in the text is the spiritual growth of the hero, getting to know life and death. Gilgamesh is an eternal traveler who walks in infinity! He wants to become a part of an impenetrable world. He has to struggle with time. He does not know when his journey will end. Or if it will end? His paradigmatic mask is completely unsolvable and transcendental. Thus, Gilgamesh, having escaped the carnival of life, begins to strive for high spirituality.
November 2024 marked the 200th anniversary of the birth of the famous Georgian poet and public figure – Rafiel Eristavi.This anniversary was celebrated in the format of sessions of one of the sections of the scientific conference. In addition, at the G. Leonidze Museum of Literature on February 11, 2025 were held a photo exhibition and presentation of the book „Raphiel Eristavi 200“. This book, although contains a photographic chronicle of the poet's life, literary-critical writings reviewing and evaluating his work, but it cannot be distinguished by the abundance of authors, the depth and comprehensiveness of the presentation of the creative, social, and scientific work of the famous figure. In addition, the planned collection of conference proceedings has not yet been published. This is how they modestly celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of an outstanding figure, Rafiel Eristavi, who made a significant contribution to the creation of Georgian culture in the 19th century. Unlike the 21st century, the 19th century more accurately read the great content of his work and paid him due respect. But Raf. Eristavi truly deserves great gratitude, love, recognition and immortality not only for his amazingly rich and multifaceted heritage, but also for creating a visible image of love for the homeland, inseparability from it, finding a poetic answer to the question: what is the homeland and love for the homeland? In the 1970s-1980s not a single significant public, national initiative or project was implemented in Georgian reality without his leadership or active participation; This would include the creation of a society for the dissemination of literacy among Georgians, the creation of a Georgian theatre society, the creation of a public library, the creation of a commission to determine the text of „The Knight in the Panther's Skin“ and the unique publication of the poem, the creation of a Georgian museum and much more. Raf. Eristavi was a great statesman – an official and translator for special affairs of the Tush-Pshav-Khevsureti Regional Administration, an special Affairs Officer of the Governor-General of Kutaisi, a provincial prosecutor, a manager of Samegrelo affairs, and the head of the Zugdidi district. However, everywhere and always, he was first and foremost a great patriot. In parallel with his civil service, he was prolific in writing – publishing poems, writing short stories, and dramatic works; He collaborated in the Georgian and Russian press, published sharp journalistic pieces and articles, and stood vigilantly guarding national interests; He was engaged in a surprisingly diverse activity in the field of science. He was a continuer of the scientific interests of European orientalism – a lexicologist and lexicographer, published the most important bilingual and trilingual dictionaries, laid the foundation for the tradition of compiling industry terminological dictionaries in our country, as well as dialectological and explanatory dictionaries. Raf. Eristavi also worked fruitfully in the fields of Georgian ethnography and folklore. Using direct observation and descriptive methods, he studied the traditional life of Tush-Pshav-Khevsureti, Tusheti, Imereti, Samegrelo, Samurzakano and Svaneti. He recorded and collected oral texts and published them in the form of letters and scientific studies in print, in collections of scientific societies and in separate books. The materials he found and discovered have not lost their historical and scientific value to this day, being indisputable facts and sources for modern scientific research. Along with this amazingly versatile work, he was a desirable and respected person in Georgian society, a leader of gatherings that he adorned with his personality. Georgian society appreciated Raf. Eristavi tireless work accordingly, which was primarily reflected in the constant public attention and love shown for his life and work. No other Georgian figure of the 19th century enjoyed such universal love and recognition as Raf. Eristavi. This was especially evident on October 22, 1895, when was celebrated on his 70th birthday and 50th anniversary of his public activity, in which the entire Georgian nation participated and the anniversary was called a public holiday. This anniversary became a fact of awakening of culture and national consciousness of the Georgian people and laid the foundation for the tradition of celebrating anniversaries among us. The work analyzes the facts of Raf. Eristavi's multifaceted activities and presents their national significance.
Osip Mandelstam. Failed Metamorphosis Kremlin mountaineer to Jugashvili
In the winter of 1937, during his exile in Voronezh, as a last desperate measure, Mandelstam tries to write an adulatory “ode” to Stalin. It seemed natural that the poet became interested in what would follow and whether he could “buy” freedom by the instrumentality of this implicit eulogy. As the research has shown, “Ode” collects and utilizes all the clichés that were used to portray Stalin as almighty and beloved leader. It is also possible to reconstruct some model by which the strategy of Stalin laudation planned. Soviets focused on primordial attachments of kinship and projected them as the dominant symbol for social allegiance. Soviet society’s leaders became “fathers” (with Stalin as the patriarch), the national heroes, model “sons”, the state, a “family” or “tribe”. It was Stalin who most often performed the ritual role of “father “or “teacher”. Together with the father’s care came his authority. They were ritual exchanges between “father” and “son”. The presence of such implications is highlighted in Mandelstam’s “Ode”.
From Nicaea to Westphalia: Institutional Continuity and the Transformation of Political Authority
This article examines the 1,300-year historical process from the Council of Nicaea in 325 CE to the Peace of Westphalia in 1648 as a paradigmatic example of fundamental institutional transformation in European civilization. The analysis demonstrates that the Council of Nicaea established the first systematic model that integrated centralized authority, collective decision-making mechanisms, and procedures for enforcing universal norms. This historical transformation represents a socio-political phenomenon of exceptional significance that laid the foundation for the future institutional development of European civilization and fundamentally altered the theoretical and practical paradigms of governance systems. The study reveals direct institutional continuity between Nicaea and Westphalia, manifested in three fundamental aspects: mechanisms of collective decision-making, conceptual frameworks of legitimate authority, and procedural standards of multilateral relations. The research confirms that medieval oppositional forces, the Protestant Reformation, and religious wars functioned as transitional phases that gradually transformed religious frameworks toward modern political institutions. The analysis demonstrates that this process represented not a structural rupture, but rather an evolutionary transformation in which each historical stage transmitted its achievements to the next and created new institutional realities. The Peace of Westphalia completed the process of weakening institutional religious influence and systematized principles that continue to define the fundamental norms of international law and diplomacy today. The Nicaean legacy, transmitted through the Westphalian system in secularized form, continues to shape the structures of contemporary global governance and determines the fundamental principles of modern functioning of international political representative institutions, including the methodological frameworks for implementing multilateral diplomacy, consensus-oriented decision-making, and concepts of sovereign equality.
Football as a tool of propaganda during the Spanish Civil War
Sport, and in particular football, often became a tool of political struggle. The creation of the Basque football team and its propaganda tour in Europe, the USSR and Latin America is one of the interesting pages of the history of Spanish Civil War. In March 1937, Franco's forces shifted the brunt of the war to the north, their first target was the Basque Country. The heads of the Spanish Republic attached less importance to the northern front, therefore there was a catastrophic shortage of weapons, ammunition and food. The head of the Basque government, former football player José Antonio Aguirre, actively used this sport abroad for propaganda and to raise funds The tour started from neighboring France. The Basque victory was significant in sporting terms, but in political terms it was overshadowed by the bombing of Guernica. The speech given at the banquet by the head of the delegation, Manuel de la Sota, is interesting, For some researchers it was a public acknowledgment of Basque nationalism. The propaganda task of the team was clearly revealed in Marseille. The first opponent of the Basques in Moscow was Lokomotiv, then Moscow Dinamo, the game with them ended with the victory of the Basques. After two wins in Moscow, the Soviet leadership could not hide its concern. The leadership wanted to take revenge. But, the second game against Dinamo ended 7:4. This hurt Stalin's self-respect, considering that Dinamo Moscow was a team of NKVD. In Georgia, the Basques were received with special warmth, the reason for this was not only Georgian hospitality, Nikolai Marr's popular theory about the kinship of the Basques and Georgians played a big role. Both games held in Tbilisi, the first against "Dinamo" and the second against the Georgian national team, ended with the victory of Basques. From a propaganda point of view, this tour of the Basques was important; it had, first of all, a political-agitational and then a sports load, and was also sufficiently accompanied by a nationalist coloration.
Russia's aggressive policy in the North Caucasus in 1545-1560 years
The peoples of the North Caucasus closely observed the developments taking place in the Muscovite state. Meanwhile, in 1548, a new war broke out between Iran and Turkey. A significant part of the Crimean military forces was dispatched to the front line, which gave Moscow the opportunity to seize the Khanate of Kazan in 1552. After this, Moscow’s role in Caucasian affairs increased. Just a few years later, in 1556, Russia conquered the Astrakhan Khanate, a development facilitated in part by the Crimean Khanate’s preoccupation with other matters, namely the outbreak of unrest among the Adyghe and Kabardian peoples. In 1555, an Adyghe-Kabardian embassy consisting of 150 members arrived in Moscow. The delegation requested assistance against the attacks of Turkey and its vassal, the Crimean Khan. It was evident that a certain small group of rulers in the North Caucasus had chosen to orient themselves toward Russia in terms of foreign policy.
The Road from Turkey to the Georgian Arena: The Semantic-Contextual Transformation of Chokhi
The history of the traditional Georgian garment and cultural symbol - chokhi - is one of the clearest examples of how material objects can undergo profound semantic transformations and become key symbols of national identity. The research revealed that the name of the fabric "chukha", which moved from the Turkic linguistic space to the Georgian context, has been recorded in Georgian literary sources since the tenth century. Specifically, since 951. Over time, it underwent both linguistic and contextual transformation. This name for the fabric was adapted to describe a distinctive form of national clothing worn by Georgian nobles, warriors, and public figures. As a result of a semiotic transformation, the chokha garment became an integral part of Georgian wrestling - a wrestling uniform. When this happened is difficult to determine, although we have a unique ancient visual source - one of the walls of the Alaverdi Cathedral with a 15th-century fresco - a wrestling scene, which directly connects chokha and wrestling. It is noteworthy that for centuries, the "chokha" has been and remains one of the most prominent symbols of national identity not only in Georgia, but also throughout the Caucasian space. Its cultural transformation confirms that the "chokha" is no longer just a piece of clothing - it is a kind of "Caucasian code" that expresses dignity, freedom, heritage, and a rebellious spirit.
The Caucasus in the Years of Independence
The countries of the South Caucasus: Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, and the mountainous state in the North Caucasus - existed as neighboring, newly independent states during the First Republic of 1918 (1918–1921). Although they all shared a common past - being part of the Russian Empire - the relations between them were quite complex and contradictory. The article presents a brief overview of their relations during this period.
Soviet Repressive Policy in Rural Areas: Kakheti, 1930s
This study explores the mechanisms and scope of Soviet repressive policies in 1930s Georgia, focusing on the villages of the Telavi Municipality. It is based on archival materials from the Kakheti Regional Archive, which detail the administrative, social, and economic conditions of rural communities under Soviet rule. By the late 1920s, Soviet authorities sought to eliminate private property, dismantle individual farms, and establish collective farms, enforcing deep intervention in all aspects of rural life. Special attention was given to integrating the rural population into collective agriculture and suppressing “socially alien” groups, particularly middle and wealthier peasants. Archival documents show that the revocation of voting rights and inclusion on “blacklists” often depended on the personal judgment of village council chairpersons, affecting merchants, peasants, clergy, and their families. These measures restricted access to education, employment, and social mobility, and forced clergy members to abandon religious duties. Expulsion from collective farms and the requirement to provide “certificates of social status” further reinforced political and socio-economic control. Overall, the archival evidence demonstrates that Soviet repressions in 1920-1930s Kakheti were systematic and ideologically driven, combining political, social, and economic mechanisms, and had a profound impact on rural communities.
Tinkercad.com Platform in STEM Education Opportunities and Challenges
The paper is dedicated to the study of the opportunities and challenges of the online simulator Tinkercad.com in STEM education. It is based on research conducted within the educational project "Using Tinkercad.com Sensors in a Smart Home Model" as part of the author’s pedagogical practice. The project was carried out in the spring of 2025 at Telavi Public School No. 5 during computer technology lessons at the primary education level, targeting a group of 15 sixth-grade students. The paper reviews the capabilities of the Tinkercad.com platform, which enables students and teachers to intuitively learn electronics, programming, and 3D modeling. It discusses Tinkercad's role in promoting interactive and practice-oriented STEM education, specifically highlighting the platform's functional aspects for STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) and their relevance to the "Smart Home" educational project presented in the paper. The paper provides a detailed description of the project planning stages and the structural modules involved in the project implementation: Preparing the workspace in a cloud environment Theoretical part: key sensors of a smart home (LDR - light, TMP36 - temperature, PIR - motion sensors) and Tinkercad Practical part: creating a virtual model of a smart home in Tinkercad, which includes: a) Technical aspect (constructing a virtual circuit using an Arduino UNO microcontroller and sensors) b) Software aspect (visual block programming) Virtual simulation process of the "Smart Home" model The paper also includes URL links to the instructions for the completed projects. The study investigates and demonstrates the effectiveness of using the Tinkercad platform in the process of acquiring STEM education. This is supported by quantitative and qualitative analysis based on surveys conducted within the project. The research was carried out using an anonymous online survey format via Google Forms (with URL links to the questionnaire and survey results attached). Based on the analysis of the survey results from the project participants, the paper presents the main findings regarding students' attitudes towards the Tinkercad platform in STEM education from both a software and educational-methodological perspective. These findings assess the platform’s advantages as well as the existing challenges.