Abstract:
The paper deals with the identity formation process in Georgia in its
early stage and focuses on the interrelation of the ethnic, religious and
cultural factors in the definition of Georgian national identity. From the
second half of the 19th century, similarly to the other imperial spaces, the
problem of definition of ethnic, religious and cultural identities actualized in Georgia. The main goal of the discussions was to find answers to the following
questions: who are We – Georgians? Who are the Others? What are
the markers which determine the borderline between Us and Them? Who
and on what basis should one be included or excluded? The formation of
identity is a complex process. In the case of Georgia, the issue was even
problematic due to the ethnic and religious diversity of the country and,
moreover, because of a religious multiplicity of the Georgian ethnic group
in itself. Thus, the issue of national belonging of the non-Orthodox Georgians
– Georgian Catholics, Gregorians and Muslims actualized. Alongside
these groups, the identity of the Georgian Jews came to the forefront as
well. In this context, the decisive role of religion in defining national identity
was questioned during intense debates, while the importance of the
common historical experience and cultural factors like language, customs
and traditions were underlined. The research is based on the analysis of
various Georgian language press materials. A newspaper is an interesting
source itself as it reflects not only on the ideas and positions of intellectuals
but highlights the public opinion and tendencies of that period as well.
