Korneli Kekelidze, Georgian philologist and scholar (d. 1962)

Korneli Kekelidze (Georgian: კორნელი კეკელიძე), born on April 18, 1879, and passing on June 7, 1962, stands as a pivotal figure in the academic and cultural landscape of Georgia. He was much more than just a Georgian philologist and a dedicated scholar of Georgian literature; Kekelidze was one of the esteemed founding fathers of the Tbilisi State University, a cornerstone institution for the nation's intellectual development. His unwavering commitment to the university was evident in his long tenure, as he chaired the Department of the History of Old Georgian Literature from its inception in 1918 until his death in 1962. This enduring dedication firmly established the foundations for the systematic study of Georgia's rich literary heritage.

A Legacy of Scholarship and Discovery

Kekelidze’s scholarly output was remarkably diverse, leaving behind a profound and extensive literary and academic legacy that irrevocably shaped the critical study of Georgian literature. His work laid the very bedrock for understanding the depth and breadth of the nation's literary tradition. Through meticulous and dedicated research, he played a crucial role in bringing to light, thoroughly studying, and ultimately publishing several invaluable pieces of Old Georgian literature. This process involved not only the arduous task of discovering ancient manuscripts but also the critical analysis and contextualization needed to make these texts accessible and comprehensible to a wider audience, thereby enriching the cultural and historical understanding of Georgia.

The pinnacle of his scholarly achievements was undoubtedly his magnum opus, A History of Old Georgian Literature (ძველი ქართული ლიტერატურის ისტორია). This seminal work, a testament to his profound knowledge and meticulous cataloging, became an indispensable resource for anyone studying Georgian literary history. Its enduring relevance and authoritative status are underscored by the fact that it went through an impressive four editions between its initial publication in 1923 and 1960, solidifying its place as a foundational text in the field.

Lasting Recognition and Influence

The immense magnitude and profound impact of Korneli Kekelidze’s accomplishments did not go unrecognized. In a fitting and significant tribute to his lifelong dedication to the preservation and study of ancient texts, the prestigious Georgian Institute of Manuscripts in Tbilisi was honorably named in his memory. This institution, which houses an unparalleled collection of Georgian manuscripts, perfectly embodies the spirit of Kekelidze’s work. Further cementing his revered status within the academic community, he was inducted as a member of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences in 1941, acknowledging his significant contributions to national scholarship and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Korneli Kekelidze?

Korneli Kekelidze was a prominent Georgian philologist, a distinguished scholar of Georgian literature, and one of the founding figures of Tbilisi State University. He is celebrated for his foundational work in the critical study of Old Georgian literature.

What was Kekelidze's primary contribution to Georgian literature?

His primary contribution was establishing the foundation for the critical study of Georgian literature. He meticulously discovered, studied, and published numerous pieces of Old Georgian literature, and his most influential work was "A History of Old Georgian Literature," which became a seminal text in the field.

Which institution is named in his honor?

The Georgian Institute of Manuscripts in Tbilisi, a renowned repository of ancient Georgian texts, was named in honor of Korneli Kekelidze, recognizing his dedication to the preservation and study of historical documents.

What was his role at Tbilisi State University?

As one of the founding fathers of Tbilisi State University, Korneli Kekelidze chaired the Department of the History of Old Georgian Literature from the university's inception in 1918 until his death in 1962. His long tenure was instrumental in shaping the academic study of Georgian literary history.

When was his most famous work, "A History of Old Georgian Literature," published?

His most famous work, "A History of Old Georgian Literature" (ძველი ქართული ლიტერატურის ისტორია), was first published in 1923 and saw four editions between 1923 and 1960, demonstrating its enduring academic importance.