Category of Evidentiality in the Kartvelian Languages: Problems, Research History, Perspectives

Abstract

The given paper focuses on the problems related to the category of evidentiality in the Kartvelian languages, research history and future perspectives. The analysis of any linguistic category, above all, implies the study of its origin, especially if the category under analysis is universal. Scholars argue whether the category of evidentiality has been borrowed by the Kartvelian languages or it is the expression of the inner potential of these languages. As the verb plays a key role in the expression of evidentiality, the paper analyzes the morphological means of expression of evidentiality in the Kartvelian languages: perfect tenses characteristic of all Kartvelian languages, imperfect tenses existing in non-written Kartvelian languages (Svan, Megrelian and Laz), specific perfect tenses of the Svan language. Based on Svan and Megrelian material, markers of evidentiality have been identified. The research has yielded a preliminary conclusion on the authenticity of the category of evidentiality in the Kartvelian languages.