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 […]
The Origin of the Office of the First Vizier
The first clear example in history of the office of the First Vizier can be found during the reign of
Lessons for Christians
From the example of the Turks, all Christians can learn an important lesson about obedience and law. The Turks show
The Education of Young Men in the Seraglio
In the Ottoman Empire, the education of young men in the Seraglio (the royal palace) was carefully organized to prepare
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
Favoritism Among the Ottoman Rulers
Historical writers often claimed that even the Grand Signiors themselves were not free from strong personal passions. According to these
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
The Chosen Agiamoglans of the Imperial Seraglio
The Agiamoglans who were chosen to serve in the Grand Signior’s Seraglio were selected from the best among the whole
The Prime Vizier’s Procession to the Divan
When the Prime Vizier went to the Divan, which was a chamber inside the Seraglio palace, he was accompanied by
The State and Splendor of the Prime Vizier
The Prime Vizier lived in a manner that matched the honor of the Sultan whom he represented. His household was