Sundukian Gabriel

Sundukian Gabriel (1825-1912), Armenian writer, playwright. Born in Tbilisi. In 1825 – 46 he studied at different boarding schools and gymnasiums of Tbilisi. In 1850 he graduated from the historical and philological faculty of Petersburg University. After returning to Tbilisi, he worked at the Viceroy’s office; later he filled the position of the chief of general service department of the Caucasian Roads’ Administration; with the lapse of time he received the rank of civil general. At the same time, he participated in the work of city council. Sundukian’s literary carrier began in 1860s. His creative activity was linked with the Armenian theater; he was one of its organizers (At present, the Armenian theater in Tbilisi is named after G. Sundukian). As a rule, G. Sundukian’s dramas and comedies were translated into Georgian, they were staged at Armenian, as well as at Georgian theaters. In this respect, his play Pepo stands out among his works; in 1871, it was staged at the Armenian Theater, in 1875 – at the Georgian theater. Later the play was frequently staged at different Georgian theaters, most significant was the production of Pepo at the Rustaveli Theater.

G. Sundukian used to write in the Tbilisian dialect of Armenian language, which abounds with Georgian words and sayings. In his works, he actively employed the folklore of Tbilisi. Those pecualirities gave specific flavor to his language.

G. Sundukian died in Tbilisi.