Greek and Latin Proper Names in Georgian Scholarship: Epigraphic, Lexicographic and Encyclopedic Traditions, Their Standardisation and Digitisation

Abstract

Greek and Latin proper names are embedded across many Georgian scholarly traditions, including epigraphic corpora, lexicographic works, and encyclopedic projects. Their rendering into Georgian has varied over time, shaped by Byzantine, Russian, and European influences, and by differing translational practices. As a result, multiple versions coexist, often creating inconsistencies in scholarship and pedagogy. This article examines three major resources: the Encyclopedia Caucasus Antiquus, the corpora of Greek inscriptions discovered in Georgia, and the Orthographic Dictionary of Greek and Roman Proper Names. It traces the historical stages of translating Greek and Latin names into Georgian and discusses current attempts of Standardisation. Particular attention is given to ongoing digitisation initiatives, including adopting the Cadmus platform for the Digital Caucasus Antiquus. The article argues that digitisation and standardisation of proper names is not simply a technical matter but a cultural and linguistic imperative. For languages with limited global digital presence such as Georgian, the creation of structured digital resources is essential for safeguarding scholarly traditions and ensuring visibility within international digital humanities.