Consciousness of Form: The Dynamic Impact of Medieval Georgian Social Changes on Script Characteristics

Abstract：This study examines the evolution of medieval Georgian script, focusing on how social transformations dynamically influenced its formal characteristics. By analyzing the interplay between script features and geographic, religious, and political contexts, it aims to uncover the survival strategies of a minority language under cultural conflicts. The research significance lies in providing a new perspective on linguistic resilience in cross-civilizational contexts. Utilizing historical archives, inscriptions, manuscripts, and theories from scholars such as Rayfield and Rapp, the study employs historical analysis, iconographic comparison, and socio-historical methods to trace the transition of Georgian script from religious to secular phases. Key findings reveal that during the religious era, monastic systems preserved the Asomtavruli script through geographic isolation and liturgical transcription, embedding ritualistic stability into its form. In the secular phase, the unification under the Bagrationi dynasty propelled the Khutsuri and Mkhedruli scripts into royal and daily use, balancing efficiency with artistic expression. The study innovatively proposes the concept of “dual consciousness” in script evolution: externally resisting cultural hegemony through preservation systems, and internally adapting forms to socio-political needs. This dual mechanism highlights the dynamic resilience of minority languages in navigating power struggles.