Hillery P.J. Georgian: The Kartvelian Literary Language

Languages Information Centre, 1994 — 32 pages. — ISBN13: 978-0948565991.The Georgian language is the only written member of the Kartvelian (South Caucasian) language group. It has a long literary tradition dating from the fifth century, and possesses a number of features of special interest to linguists. This brief description covers the script, sound system, morphology and syntax of the language. It pays particular attention to the relatively complex verb system. A text extract is examined in some detail as an example of the language in use. This short introduction is aimed at those with an interest in comparative linguistics who wish to gain some familiarity with this non-Indo-European language. It should also prove useful as a first reference for those who wish to study the Georgian language in more depth. It is assumed that the reader is familiar with general linguistic concepts and terminology, but no detailed or specialized knowledge is required.