Svans in Georgia: Unraveling the Threads of National Identity

Georgia, a country nestled at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, is renowned for its rich tapestry of history, languages, and traditions. One of the most captivating elements of Georgia’s cultural fabric is its diverse range of ethnic groups and regions, each with its unique heritage. Among these are the Svans, a group whose history, traditions, and identity have sparked discussions and occasionally misunderstandings, especially among foreigners.

The Birth of Georgian Society

We must first travel back to medieval times to understand the intricate relationship between the Svans and the broader Georgian identity. During this period, a convergence of three significant kingdoms – Abkhazia, Iberia, and Kakheti – birthed what we now recognize as Georgian society.

It’s imperative to comprehend that we’re speaking of Georgians when we discuss Svans, Mingrelians, Laz, Imeretians, Kartlians, Kakhetians, Gurians, and Abkhazians. Each of these groups, with their languages, dialects, customs, and traditions, have woven together to form the vibrant mosaic of Georgia. Just as threads intertwine to create a rich tapestry, these groups combine their histories and traditions to forge a unified Georgian identity.

In contrast to other nations, like France or Spain, which underwent significant cultural changes influenced by external factors after the dissolution of the Roman Empire, Georgian society built a shared identity. Svans and Mingrelians, for example, were instrumental in this process. Their influence on Georgian identity is as significant as that of the Imeretians or Kakhetians.

Beyond Assimilation: The Svans as Georgians

A common misunderstanding, especially among foreigners, is that the Svans are “assimilated” into Georgian society. However, this concept couldn’t be further from the truth. Svans have always viewed themselves as Georgians. To them, there aren’t “Svan” and “regular” Georgians – just Georgians.

Each region in Georgia boasts its own set of traditions, behaviours, dialects, and sometimes even languages. Yet, despite these differences, all consider themselves part of the Kartvelian family. The term “regular Georgian” is perhaps a misrepresentation, as it seems to imply that there is a standard or primary Georgian culture. Instead, Georgian identity comprises a spectrum of cultural nuances from different regions.

 

Clannish Mentality: A Mountainous Trait

The so-called “clannish” mentality, often associated with the Svans, is not exclusive to them. This mindset is prevalent among many mountain-dwelling groups. For instance, one might find Svans and Khevsurs more common than Svans and Imeretians. Mountainous regions, by virtue of their geography, often cultivate closed cultures that resist external change. This resilience and distinctiveness might make such groups appear more unique or distinct to outsiders.

 

Subethnic Groups: The Multifaceted Georgian Identity

Undoubtedly, Georgia is home to various subethnic groups, each bringing flavour to the country’s culture. These groups, ranging from Svans to Megrelians, Lazs to Gurians, and many more, each contribute uniquely to Georgian society. While some, like the Svans, Megrel, and Laz, have languages that diverged from proto-Kartvelian ages ago, their identities remain rooted in the broader Georgian culture.

 

What did we learn today?

Georgia’s identity is a complex blend of various ethnic groups, dialects, and traditions. While each group, including the Svans, has its distinct characteristics and history, they all come together to form the rich cultural landscape of Georgia. Recognizing the individual beauty of each thread is essential, but so is understanding how they come together to create the magnificent tapestry that is Georgia.