Imereti and Alexander Orbeliani

Abstract

Alexander Orbeliani is one of the important representatives of our literature. Akaki Tsereteli refers to him as a „fanatic“ patriot, known for leading the conspiracy of 1832 and tirelessly fighting for Georgia’s independence. „I like Imereti and I love you, Imerlebi“, Alexander Orbeliani said to a young Akaki. The romantic writer believed that the Georgian spirit was better preserved in Imereti than in Eastern Georgia.

Ilia Chavchavadze, Akaki Tsereteli, Kirile Lortkifanidze, Sergey Meskhi, and other Georgians of the 19th century spoke of Alexander Orbeliani with great warmth and sincere respect.

In the writer›s literary legacy, Imereti is depicted from three perspectives. Firstly, as a bastion of Georgian (Imerian) folk songs and laughter. Secondly, from a political standpoint – the author acquaints us with the role of the Imereti army in the Krtsanisi War. And thirdly, through interrogation protocols (specifically, Alexander Orbeliani›s responses to the investigative commission›s questions), we can discern Imereti›s role in the 1832 conspiracy. Alexander Orbeliani is a reliable and truthful storyteller, drawing on firsthand accounts to reveal the truth about historical events. Therefore, his works are highly significant for modern readers, particularly in portraying the life of Imereti through both journalistic and artistic-documentary narratives.