Honor of Serving in the Royal Chamber
Those who, through the grace and favor of the Sultan, reached the dignity of serving in the Royal Chamber enjoyed
The Sultan’s Table at the Vizier’s Expense
The Grand Signior often demands twenty dishes of meat, which is the usual amount served at his ordinary table. On
Religious Instruction and Translation
Many of the students devoted themselves to books that treated the matters of faith and religious law. These works were
Ambition to Rise Through Learning
Many students directed their studies toward mastering the art of writing, hoping to rise to honor and high office through
Effects of Strict Discipline and Separation
Because of the strict discipline of the Seraglio and the complete separation from women, the young men grew almost entirely
Age and Readiness for High Office
Before ending this chapter, it is important to note that no one was promoted from the Seraglio without special favor
Promotion as Offices Become Vacant
As offices within the Ottoman Empire became vacant, replacements were chosen in an orderly manner. These appointments were usually made
Officers of the Seraglio and Their Duties
Within the Seraglio of the Ottoman Sultan, many important officers served under the chief eunuchs. Each had a defined role
The White Eunuchs and Their Rank
These officers described above are the principal and senior officers among the White Eunuchs of the Seraglio. Besides them, there
Officers Serving the Queen Mother
Among the Black Eunuchs, several officers are assigned specifically to the service of the Queen Mother, whose household is one