This book is prepared under the frameworks of the project ”Feminist Library Georgia” as part of Gender Democracy Program. Project aims to support translation of academic essays from the feminist theory into the Georgian language.
Artworks for the project “TKESHI”.
TKASHIMAPA: In Megrelian myths, a goddess of forest and animals. With golden hair, she was believed to be of unsurpassed beauty and often tempted hunters entering her domain. However, the hunter could not reveal the secret of his liaison with Tkashimapa, and those, who failed to keep their word, were turned into stone.
Ochokochi was a forest deity characterized by a fusion of human and animal traits. Believed to possess thick fur, large claws, and spiky horns on its chest, Ochokochi was a unique embodiment of both human and animalistic features.
Living in remote forest corners, Ochokochi wandered in the woods, scaring the hunters or shepherds they encountered with their appearance.
Ochokochi was believed to be enthralled by TkashiMapa, whom he constantly chased in order to copulate. However, mortal hunters stood as protectors, shielding TkashiMapa from his relentless advances.
Adgilis Deda – is the goddess of a specific place. The Khevsurs represented her as a beautiful woman adorned with silver jewelry. She cared for the peaceful life of the village, safeguarding all living creatures within her protection, including foreigners who visited the area.
The snake is considered the assisting force of the mother of the place, yet she herself is embodied in this snake.
Often, the mother of the place assumes the form of a snake when she wishes to appear to a person.