Subject
Turkey -- Social life and customs Books
Best books
Miss (Julia) Pardoe
The City of the Sultan; and Domestic Manners of the Turks, in 1836, Vol. 1 (of 2)
"The City of the Sultan; and Domestic Manners of the Turks, in 1836" by Miss Pardoe is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The book explores the intricate and often misunderstood world of Turkish society and customs during that time, particularly focusing on domestic life and the experiences of a European traveler in Constantinople. The author aims to provide readers with a nuanced perspective on Turkish culture, particularly its political and social dynamics. The opening of the book vividly describes the author’s first impressions of Constantinople as she arrives in the Golden Horn. She captures the beauty and complexity of the city, detailing its stunning architecture, the rush of various languages, and the sights and sounds of daily life. As she compares the Eastern customs with those of Europe, Pardoe expresses her sense of wonder and excitement while also addressing the political tensions and societal norms she encounters, particularly the challenges faced by foreign visitors in navigating local culture. Overall, this introduction sets the tone for a thoughtful exploration of Turkish life interspersed with rich observations and personal insights.
Fanny Janet Sandison Blunt
Twenty Years' Residence among the People of Turkey: Bulgarians, Greeks, Albanians, Turks, and Armenians
"Twenty Years' Residence among the People of Turkey: Bulgarians, Greeks, Albanians, Turks, and Armenians" is a historical account published in the late 19th century, edited by Stanley Lane Poole. The book provides a detailed examination of various ethnic groups in Turkey, particularly focusing on their social conditions, customs, and national characteristics. It is written from the perspective of an Englishwoman who has spent two decades observing and interacting with these communities, highlighting the nuances of their lives and the complex relationships between them. At the start of the work, the author discusses the lack of authoritative and comprehensive information regarding the Eastern Question, emphasizing the need for a reliable source that captures the diverse conditions of the people living under Ottoman rule. The preface elaborates on her extensive experiences in various provinces of Turkey, setting the tone for a nuanced exploration of the ethnic identities of Bulgarians, Greeks, and Turks, among others. The opening portion introduces us to the complicated historical context of the Bulgarians, detailing their struggles under Ottoman oppression, societal dynamics, and the development of their national identity while contrasting their experiences with those of other groups in the region.
Miss (Julia) Pardoe
The City of the Sultan; and Domestic Manners of the Turks, in 1836, Vol. 2 (of 2)
"The City of the Sultan; and Domestic Manners of the Turks, in 1836" by Miss Pardoe is a historical travel account written in the early 19th century. This work chronicles the author's observations and experiences while exploring the culture, landscape, and people of Turkey, particularly focusing on the city of Broussa and the broader Ottoman Empire. The narrative is likely to delve into the customs, architecture, and daily life of Turks during that time. The opening portion introduces the author's departure for Broussa, highlighting the picturesque journey aboard a boat and her reflections on the sights encountered along the way. As they arrive at Moudania, she describes the dimly lit coastal town and the traditional customs involved in navigating through the local customs house. The narrative captures not only the beauty of the surroundings but also the author's curious engagement with the local culture, noting details such as the significance of the word "backshich" (a form of tipping in Turkey) and the customs of the people she meets.
C. (Christopher) Oscanyan
The Sultan and His People
"The Sultan and His People" by C. Oscanyan is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book offers insights into the cultural, social, and political landscape of the Ottoman Empire, with a focus on the relationship between the Sultan and the diverse populations within his realm. Oscanyan aims to dispel myths and prejudices surrounding Eastern life and customs while presenting a vivid portrayal of Turkish society. At the start of the book, the author sets the tone with a reflective exploration of the transient nature of human existence and the contrasting permanence of historical knowledge. He emphasizes the fascination of the Western world with the Orient and aims to provide a deeper understanding of Turkish life and culture, noting the misunderstandings that arise from a lack of direct experience with the region. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for a more detailed examination of various aspects of Turkish society, including its history, religious beliefs, governance, and customs, as presented from the perspective of a native of Constantinople.
hanoum Zeyneb
A Turkish Woman's European Impressions
"A Turkish Woman's European Impressions" by Zeyneb Hanoum is a memoir written in the early 20th century, offering a candid view of a Turkish woman's experience in European society. The work describes the struggles of Zeyneb and her sister, Melek, as they escape the oppressive confines of their life in the Ottoman Empire, seeking freedom and new experiences in Europe. The overarching theme revolves around their attempts to navigate the cultural contrasts between Turkey and the West, particularly regarding women's rights and societal expectations. The opening of the memoir introduces Zeyneb's poignant reflections on her precarious situation and the emotional turmoil that accompanies their flight from Turkey. Through a letter addressed to a friend, Zeyneb expresses her exhilaration at having stepped into a world of freedom, one filled with novel impressions and unexpected challenges. She paints a vivid picture of her past life in a harem, characterized by secrecy and fear, contrasting sharply with the open windows and vibrant life she encounters in Europe. This duality sets the tone for her narrative, as she grapples with both the joys of newfound independence and the lingering anxieties of her past.
Çerkesseyhizade Halil Halit
The Diary of a Turk
"The Diary of a Turk" by Halil Halit is a memoir written in the early 20th century. The work presents a personal perspective on life in Turkey, specifically focusing on the author's experiences growing up in Asia Minor and his reflections on societal norms. The narrative explores themes such as family heritage, education, and the cultural practices surrounding women and polygamy in Ottoman society. At the start of the memoir, the author introduces his Asiatic origins, recounts stories of his family's religious significance, and reflects on his childhood in the town of Angora. He discusses his father's charitable nature, the circumstances surrounding his father's death, and the educational challenges he faced. The initial chapters also touch upon his early encounters with the harem system, the customs of seclusion for women, and his childhood antics. As he navigates through his family's traditions and societal expectations, he provides insights into the intersection of personal aspirations and the rigid customs of Ottoman life.
John Auldjo
Journal of a Visit to Constantinople and Some of the Greek Islands in the Spring and Summer of 1833
"Journal of a Visit to Constantinople, and Some of the Greek Islands" by John Auldjo is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The book chronicles Auldjo's journeys and observations during his travels to Constantinople and several Greek islands, reflecting the cultural and political atmosphere of the time. Through his narratives, Auldjo captures the vibrant landscapes, people, and experiences he encountered, providing readers with insights into the sights and societal dynamics of the era. At the start of the journal, Auldjo prepares for departure aboard H.M.S. Actæon, detailing the emotional farewells at the port of Naples amid a stormy setting. He describes the crew and their camaraderie, as well as their collective excitement for the journey ahead. The narrative flows as he recounts their experiences at sea, with highlights including their passing under the cliffs of Capri and the majestic sight of Stromboli, while also addressing the challenges of sea sickness and interactions among the crew. Overall, the beginning sets a reflective tone, mingling personal impressions with vivid descriptions of the landscapes and the intricacies of maritime life.
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