Princes and the Rule of Law
Authority Above Punishment, Not Above Order The saying “Et si legibus solutissimus, tamen legibus vivimus” means this: although princes are
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
Kara-Hajjan Visits the Grand Signior
Kara-Hajjan, the newly elected Aga of the Janizaries, went to the Seraglio to thank the Grand Signior for the honor
Reaction to the Queen’s Death
The news of the Old Queen’s death reached the old Chamber of the Janizaries. Several of them, along with some
The Return of the Stolen Jewels
Fearing that the jewels he had taken were meant to be worn only by the Grand Signior, Ali Bojiangi decided
The Queen’s Final Plea for Mercy
“O brave man, be not cruel to me,” the Old Queen cried out in a trembling voice. She begged for
The Crowd Restrained but Not Calmed
This action restrained the boldness of some who had been ready to lay violent hands upon the woman. Yet the
A Great Gathering of Armed Men
In a very short time, the gathering of people became extremely large. So many armed men arrived that the gardens
News of Fighting in the Streets
At this moment, news arrived that a fight had broken out in the streets. The outcome was still uncertain, and
Confusion in the Presence Chamber
Those who entered His Majesty’s Presence Chamber immediately perceived a great tumult and disorder. The noise was so loud and