FROM NOBLES TO SERVANTS: WOMEN'S ROLES IN GEORGIAN MONOGAMY - A HISTORICAL ANALYSIS THROUGH LITERARY SOURCES

Nino Gambashidze

Nino Gambashidze Associate professor of New Vision University, Tbilisi, Georgia http://orcid.org/0000-0002-8084-7185

Abstract

The earliest Georgian literary works, traditionally categorized as "hagiography," chronicle the lives and martyrdoms of notable figures from the early Christian era (5^th -9^th centuries). In addition to religious themes, these narratives reveal the actions of real individuals who, while advocating for their faith, also asserted their right to act independently, even in the face of aggression and opposition from those in power.

This article delves into the roles of women in positions of authority, as well as women from lower social strata, who, according to medieval Georgian and Armenian sources, made significant contributions to the state despite their modest beginnings. The period following Persian, Arabian, and Turkish invasions in Georgia witnessed the introduction of "maidens" and "servants" into the monogamous culture, prompting questions about the purpose of this institution. It remains uncertain whether these foreign women were assigned to monarchs and noble leaders for specific, and possibly ambiguous, reasons. Consequently, both Georgian men and women across social classes grappled with the introduction of this institution, which was never formally endorsed. Unfortunately, servant women often bore the label of being loyal to their masters, further casting suspicion on them as potential "spies" within the royal court. The responsibility of challenging practices like polygamy or moral laxity often fell on the shoulders of accomplished women. Thus, the adage "Behind every successful man, there stands a strong woman" resonates in the portrayal of Georgian women throughout the centuries, continuing into modern times.

In the presented article, there is an attempt to show the actions of women in power as well as women of low class who would carry out the idea of service to the state in spite of their social origin, according to Georgian and Armenian medieval sources.

Keywords: Georgian literature; Women in power; Social dynamics; Medieval Georgia; Political influence; Gender roles; Cultural transformation.