The Advantage of Absolute Power in the Turkish Empire
The Strength Gained from Undivided Authority The importance and usefulness of absolute power in the Turkish state can clearly be […]
Order Restored Inside the Seraglio
Inside the Seraglio, everything was now brought into good order. After the morning prayers were finished, the Baltagees—a special guard
The Rise of Janissary Power
The Retreat of the Spahis After failing to achieve their demands, the Spahis withdrew and scattered to their own regions.
The Fall of Feminine Rule
Growing Anger Among the Soldiers For a long time, the government was effectively ruled by women and court favorites. This
The Careful Choice of Officers
The Turks were very careful in choosing their officers. They preferred to be served by men they had raised and
Titles That Show Absolute Power
The Emperor as God’s Representative on Earth The absolute and unlimited power of the Ottoman Emperor is clearly shown by
The Sultan’s Appearance in the Garden
When the Grand Signior wishes to spend time in the palace garden with a chosen number of women, a signal
The End of the Private Ceremony
After the formal ceremonies and private meeting have ended, the woman chosen by the Grand Signior is returned to the
The Fate of the Sultan’s Consorts After His Death
After the death of the Grand Signior, different rules applied to the women of the Seraglio depending on whether they
Fear Ambition and Rival Factions at Court
The Mother’s Growing Fear The Sultan’s mother, already shaken by the violent death of her husband, soon became deeply fearful