GENDER ISSUES AND THE OLDEST GEORGIAN LITERARY MONUMENTS

Abstract
In the modern Georgian cultural space, the growing interest in gender issues has made the special role of women in historical processes increasingly relevant. At the same time, it has brought gender-based stereotypes to the forefront—stereotypes that can be overcome through in-depth study of the issue, public awareness, increased levels of gender education and a proper understanding and highlighting of the most important events of the historical past. For centuries, Georgian identity has been defined by Orthodox Christianity, which preaches the spiritual equality of women and men. A prime example of this gender equality can be found in the oldest hagiographic monument of Georgian historiography — the Life of Saint Nino (4th century), the Christianizer of Georgians. The Saint's successful missionary work during the era of dominant pagan kingship completely dismantles the gender perceptions of that time. On the other hand, we are also presented with the martyrdom of a holy woman — Saint Shushanik (5th century) — and the gender-related hardships she faced on her path to Christ, in opposition to her husband. Through the example of the deeds of these Saints, our research highlights the general role of women in the Christianization of our country and in history overall. It examines the differing gendered language/terms used in the texts, the perspectives of the first female authors and other valuable gender-related issues, which are of great importance in the field of gender education. Keywords - Hagiography, Gender, Language, Stereotypes