The Other Side of Ottoman Empire

The imperial palace of the Ottoman Empire housed a secluded and mysterious world known as the harem. Within its walls, hundreds of women from both within and beyond the empire served as personal slaves to the sultan. These women, who were primarily non-Turkish and often captured by slave hunters, were predominantly of Christian faith. In a peculiar incident, a mechanic from London, dispatched by Queen Elizabeth, was tasked with installing an organ within the imperial harem. To his surprise, he witnessed the sultan's concubines engaging in a game of ball, initially mistaking them for young men. Despite the potential for loneliness, the harem, also referred to as the abode of felicity, provided its inhabitants with all the means of happiness. This was the reality of the imperial harem in 16th-century Istanbul.

In the early 20th century, the harem operated as a clandestine society shrouded in mystery and secrecy. Within its walls, women were provided with a unique opportunity for education and training, akin to that of a female university within the empire. However, life within the Sultan's harem was far from ideal, characterized by strict rules and a lack of freedom. Inmates were expected to adhere to stringent behavioral guidelines, which included suppressing anger and focusing on acquiring literacy skills. The harem resembled more of a prison, with eunuchs acting as prison wardens and young men undergoing castration to serve as staff. The selection process for concubines was based on various criteria, such as physical attractiveness, health, and intelligence. Before their first night with the sultan, concubines underwent rituals that involved treatments and henna painting. Hair removal techniques in the harem relied on ancient methods, including the use of arsenic paste and muscle shells. Additionally, the henna decoration was applied above the pubic area, and concubines underwent specific preparations. Within the palace system, Hurrem employed strategic manipulation to gain power and influence. Her success in bearing multiple sons secured her position in Suleiman's favor.

The Ottoman succession was marked by deadly competition, as contenders vied for the throne by eliminating their male relatives. This practice of eliminating potential rivals was a common occurrence in securing the Ottoman throne. Sultan expresses his love through the medium of poetry, showcasing his romantic side towards the harem. Meanwhile, Hurrem's letters shed light on her concerns for her sons and the intricate political dynamics within the kingdom. The downfall of Ibrahim Pasha is marked by a power struggle, exacerbated by his marriage to the Sultan's sister, which fueled ambitions and resentment within the harem. Ibrahim's eventual demise in 1536 can be attributed to his corruption and arrogant behavior. Following the death of Prince Mehmed, a competition for succession ensues, with Mustafa emerging as a strong contender favored by the army. However, Mustafa's popularity is marred by intrigues and conflicts with the Sultan, ultimately leading to his tragic demise at the hands of mutes in Suleiman's tent. The murder is wrongly attributed to Suleiman's harem, causing it to be perceived as a threat to the empire. Consequently, the harem becomes a significant entity in Ottoman history. The tomb of the harem serves as a shrine for women who remember her as a remarkable queen.

Despite the controversy surrounding the harem's influence as concubines, it paves the way for future generations of powerful women within its walls. One such influential figure is Nabanu, who was captured at a young age by an Ottoman admiral and presented to Salim II. Nabanu's privileged position as a concubine in Salim II's princely career and later as a sultan highlights her power and honor within the harem. The rise of Murad to power through fratricide has a profound impact on the women in the palace, as they experience pressure and influence to support his actions. This leads to a sense of terror and paranoia within the harem. Queen mothers also play significant roles in royal courts, further shaping the dynamics within the palace. The mother played a vital role in ensuring her son's success and survival as a prince. Queen mothers wielded power and influence, offering counsel to sultans and engaging in correspondence with other members of royalty. The harem played a significant role in the political landscape and power structure of the Ottoman Empire.

Despite only men being eligible to inherit the throne, the harem provided women with avenues for political influence. The various positions within the harem mirrored a well-organized departmental system, similar to that of a large corporation. Each role within the harem was distinct and essential. The harem steward oversaw service divisions, while black eunuchs, as guardians of sacred spaces, possessed unique access and influence. The Ottoman sultans were highly strategic in managing the size of their harem and the number of children they had. They were cautious not to have too many children, as this could potentially lead to a crisis upon their death. The queen mothers, like Nabanu, held significant power and influence within the palace, which was evident in their living quarters and charitable endeavors. Women who succeeded Hurrem as political figures were particularly known for their architectural contributions. The mosques and buildings they constructed showcased the importance of the queen mothers. During the 17th century, there was a transition that allowed strong women to fill the power vacuum.

Regent Kasem played an influential role in both political and familial matters. She maintained open and honest communication with the grand viziers, expressing a mix of frustration and responsibility. Kasem's crucial role was evident in persuading Ibrahim to ascend to the throne after the death of Murad IV. This period also witnessed a power struggle within the Ottoman Empire. The queen's mother played a crucial role in maintaining political stability and ensuring the continuity of the dynasty. Kyocem's influence was instrumental in helping the empire navigate through various crises and survive. The sultan's downfall was brought about by his obsession with fur, as he imposed a fur tax to decorate the palace excessively, showcasing his abuse of power. Kusam's political maneuvering ultimately led to the removal of the sultan and the succession of his son. Kasem faced challenges, including Ibrahim's imprisonment and power struggles, which intensified the conflict between their supporters. The power struggle between Kasem and Ibrahim's supporters escalated, with Kasem also contending with the boy sultan's mother. Krsem, Kasem's grandmother, faced deadly rivalry within the palace, leading to violent acts and her eventual downfall.

The rivalry among powerful women in the palace resulted in violent actions, such as the killing of a eunuch who supported Kasem and the execution of Krsem by Kasem himself. Despite her controversial and manipulative nature, Krsem was highly regarded by many and eventually revered as the queen mother during Kasem's reign. The involvement of women played a significant role in the decline of the Ottoman Empire. The sultan was safeguarded and advised in governing the empire by the women of the harem amidst a challenging era. The period of women's administration of the dynasty elicits a varied perspective, giving rise to discussions regarding its influence.