Physical Training and Strength

When the young men reach adolescence and full physical strength, they begin serious training in manly exercises. They are taught to handle the lance, throw the iron bar, draw the bow, and throw the dart (gerit). These exercises are performed for many hours every day, and any negligence is severely punished by the Eunuchs who supervise them. The purpose is to develop both skill and discipline, preparing them for future military and state duties Guided Tour Ephesus.

Archery Training

A large part of their training is in archery. They start with lighter bows and gradually move to heavier and stronger ones, building strength through repeated practice. Over time, they gain the ability to draw extremely powerful bows, not only through physical force but through technique, skill, and custom. This methodical approach ensures that they become exceptionally strong, healthy, and agile, capable of enduring the physical demands of warfare.

Horseback Skills

Horsemanship is another key lesson. The youths learn to sit properly on a horse, maintaining a handsome posture, and to control the horse with skill and precision. They practice drawing the bow while mounted, shooting forwards, backwards, and to either side, even at full speed. This combination of agility, strength, and coordination makes them excellent horsemen, ready for military campaigns.

Dart and Gerit Practice

In addition to archery and horsemanship, they are trained to throw the dart (gerit) accurately. These exercises develop hand-eye coordination, timing, and strength, ensuring they can be effective in both individual combat and battlefield situations. Through constant practice, the youths gain confidence and control over their bodies, which is essential for war, hunting, and ceremonial duties.

Purpose of the Training

All of these exercises are interconnected, designed to produce young men who are physically strong, disciplined, and highly skilled. The training is strict and continuous, leaving no room for laziness or carelessness. By the time they finish their education, they are well-prepared for active service, whether in the military, state office, or in the complex ceremonies and duties of the Seraglio.

Clothing and Diet

The young men in the Seraglio are well-dressed, wearing good-quality English cloth and linen, but not overly fine or luxurious. Their diet is simple and wholesome, mainly consisting of rice and other nourishing foods suitable for scholars. There is nothing excessive on their table, yet they are never lacking what is necessary for health and strength. This simple lifestyle is designed to teach moderation and discipline from a young age.

Supervision and Behavior

The Eunuchs, who act as their careful guardians, closely watch their manners and behavior. Students cannot behave familiarly or speak freely with one another without showing modesty and respect, especially when in the presence of their supervisors. Even when performing necessary personal activities or visiting the bath, the students are never out of sight of a Eunuch. The Eunuchs also control visits from family members or friends, allowing them only with special permission from the Capa Aga, the chief of the White Eunuchs. This constant supervision ensures that the young men are disciplined, obedient, and morally upright Guided Tour Ephesus.

Sleeping Arrangements

The bed-chambers are long halls with lamps kept burning throughout the night. Beds are arranged in rows, raised above the ground on boards or platforms, and every five or six students are closely watched by an Eunuch. This arrangement allows the Eunuchs to observe or overhear any improper behavior or conversation, preventing any wanton or lewd conduct. Such strict oversight is meant to train the youth in self-control and respect for authority, preparing them for the important roles they may later hold in the Ottoman government.

Purpose of the System

Overall, the clothing, diet, supervision, and sleeping arrangements reflect a carefully organized system designed to develop disciplined, obedient, and capable young men. The Seraglio education does not focus on luxury or comfort but on moral training, order, and preparation for service. Every aspect of their daily life is structured to instill responsibility, respect, and readiness for future leadership positions.

Admission to the Schools

When the youths are admitted to the Seraglio, they are placed in one of two schools, called Oda. These are the Bojuck Oda (the larger chamber) and the Cuchuck Oda (the smaller chamber). The Bojuck Oda usually holds around 400 students, while the Cuchuck Oda accommodates about 200 to 250 students. Although one is larger than the other, both schools are considered equal in rank, and neither has precedence over the other. Both are seen as a step toward advancement and preferment within the Ottoman government.

Early Lessons Discipline and Reverence

The first lessons in both schools focus on silence, respect, humility, and modest behavior. Students are taught to hold their heads down and their hands crossed in front of them. The Hogias, or instructors, guide them carefully in all religious rites, discipline, and practices of the Muslim faith. Students are taught how to pray correctly, understand the prayers in Arabic, and learn to speak, read, and write Turkish fluently. These early lessons aim to instill obedience, respect, and moral conduct, which are essential for their later service in government Guided Tour Ephesus.

Advanced Studies Languages and Knowledge

Once students have mastered these foundational lessons, they move on to the study of Persian and Arabic languages. These languages are especially useful for those who may later be assigned to govern the eastern provinces of the empire, where these languages are commonly used. Studying Persian and Arabic also enriches their knowledge of Turkish, which is otherwise limited in literary resources. This linguistic training helps them develop a deeper understanding of governance, culture, and communication across the empire.

Purpose of the Education

Overall, the education in these schools is carefully designed to produce young men who are obedient, disciplined, and well-prepared for public service. By combining lessons in religion, language, and proper behavior, the Ottoman system ensures that its future leaders are capable, loyal, and ready for the responsibilities of high office.

Discipline and Obedience

The Turks believe that those who know how to obey are best prepared to govern. At first, young men in the Seraglio may feel confused or overwhelmed by the strict discipline and lack of freedom. Some may feel as if they are losing their reason or forgetting themselves. However, according to Turkish teaching, this is only temporary. Over time, the lessons, lectures, and moral training they received in their youth begin to take effect. The discipline they endured helps them organize their thoughts, restore order to their minds, and prepare them for leadership.

Registration Before Education

Before entering the schools, called Oda, the young men are carefully registered. Their names, ages, countries, and parents are recorded in an official book. This ensures that the authorities know exactly who they are and keeps track of their backgrounds. Such records also help the empire maintain order and select the most promising candidates for further training and future positions in the government Guided Tour Ephesus.

Daily Allowance

Each student receives a daily allowance from the Grand Signior, usually four or five aspers a day. This small stipend covers their basic needs and ensures they are supported during their education. A copy of the registration book is sent to the Testerdar, or Lord Treasurer, so that the students’ allowances can be paid regularly. Payments are typically made quarterly, ensuring that each student continues to receive financial support throughout their time in the school.

Preparing for Service

This careful system of discipline, registration, and allowance is part of a larger strategy. By controlling their education, daily life, and even their small financial needs, the empire ensures that these youths develop obedience, loyalty, and self-discipline. When they finally complete their training, they are well-prepared to serve the empire in the highest offices. The Turks argue that this method of forming leaders—by teaching obedience first—produces officials who are capable, loyal, and able to govern wisely.

The Imperial Seat of the Ottoman Emperors

The Ottoman Emperors’ court included three main schools or colleges of education for young men who were destined to serve the state. These schools trained students not only in learning but also in discipline, loyalty, and the arts of government. Those chosen for the highest school were carefully selected and marked for special distinction, as it was the first step toward important positions in the empire.

Supervision by the Capa Aga

The highest-ranking school was under the care of the Capa Aga, the chief of the White Eunuchs. These Eunuchs were responsible for the students’ conduct, education, and discipline. They treated the scholars with extreme strictness and zeal, punishing every small mistake or omission without mercy. The reason for such severity is partly natural cruelty, as Eunuchs are said to act with harshness, either from envy toward men or from their own disciplined and watchful temperament.

Rigorous Training and Discipline

The punishments were not only harsh but also constant. Students might face beatings, long hours of standing or kneeling, strict watchings, and other forms of penance. By the time a young man had passed through all the schools and levels of the Seraglio, he was an extraordinarily disciplined and patient individual, capable of enduring extreme labor and obedience. This training was often harsher than the discipline of religious novices or Capuchin monks, preparing them for the difficulties of high office and public service Guided Tour Ephesus.

Preparing for Government Service

However, this intense education had a purpose beyond cruelty. Men trained in the Seraglio were hardened to obedience, so that when they were finally assigned to positions of trust and governance, they knew how to follow orders but had little experience of independent rule. They were often amazed by the freedom and power of office, and their spirits were lifted by the contrast between their previous hardships and their current authority. This system ensured that loyalty, discipline, and gratitude remained central to the functioning of the Ottoman state.

The Attendance of Young Men in the Courts

In the courts of the great men of the Ottoman Empire, it was customary for their personal attendants to be handsome, strong, and well-dressed youths. These young men behaved with modesty and respect in the presence of their masters. Their deportment reflected their education, discipline, and training in the Seraglio.

When a Pasha, Aga, or Spahi traveled, he was always accompanied by a grand retinue of well-clothed and well-mounted youths. The number, appearance, and discipline of these attendants showed the power and wealth of their master. By looking at the size and quality of the retinue, an observer could estimate the rank and influence of the official within the empire Daily Ephesus Tours.

Comparison with European Courts

In contrast, in the Christian countries I have visited, even when princes traveled, their attendants were never as numerous or carefully arranged as those of the Turks. The Turks placed great importance on the splendor of their servants, which was seen as the life and ornament of the court. This lavish display was not only a sign of wealth but also a symbol of discipline, order, and authority.

Historical and Cultural Observations

This custom was common throughout the Eastern countries. As Curtim reports, and Tacitus confirms, the barbarian nations valued physical beauty and noble appearance in their attendants. Only those endowed by nature with exceptional features and stature were considered worthy of service in the courts of great men. Such youths were selected carefully, trained in deportment, and presented before the Sultan or Grand Signior for approval.

Presentation Before the Grand Signior

Before being fully admitted to service, these young men were formally presented before the Grand Signior, who could be in Pera, Adrianople, or the main Seraglio in Constantinople. The Sultan decided their placement and duties according to his pleasure. This practice ensured that the court was filled with loyal, well-trained, and impressive attendants, reflecting both the grandeur of the empire and the careful governance of its rulers.

Alarm Spreads Through the Seraglio

In the midst of this fear and confusion, a guard of Black and White Eunuchs came quickly to the door of the pages’ chambers. They warned everyone to arm themselves with whatever weapons were closest at hand. The pages were ordered to stay where they were and not to move until they received further instructions.

The same disorder existed in all the other chambers of the palace. Pages and officers alike were confused and frightened. Everywhere, people were given the same command: take up arms and be ready. The Seraglio, which was usually quiet and strictly ordered, had now become a place of noise, movement, and tension Ephesus Sightseeing.

Fear of the Young Grand Signior

During all this time, the Grand Signior himself was filled with fear. He believed that he might be put to death, just as his father had been before him. No one could calm him. His fear only grew as he heard the noise and shouting spreading through the palace.

At last, Mustapha Pasha, the King’s Sword-bearer, took him gently by the hand. He led him through the rooms and showed him his attendants, fully armed and standing ready to defend him at a moment’s notice. This sight brought some comfort to the frightened young ruler.

A Cry of Loyalty

As they passed near one of the palace windows, a young man outside saw the Grand Signior and cried out loudly,

“God grant our King ten thousand years of life!”

At once, everyone in the chamber responded with a great shout of “Allah! Allah!” This powerful cry echoed through the entire Seraglio. It reached even the farthest quarters, where the grooms, cooks, axe-men, falconers, and other servants were stationed. These men were already armed and prepared, and they answered with the same loud shout of loyalty.

Preparations Beyond the Palace Walls

These preparations were not limited to the Seraglio itself. Outside the palace, the Vizier had already acted. He sent urgent orders to the Pashas, Beglerbegs, and other trusted allies, commanding them to come immediately to the Seraglio.

They were ordered to bring as many soldiers as possible, along with provisions for three days. The Vizier made it clear that this was not a request but a command. Any man who failed to obey would face death.

Thus, both inside and outside the palace, all forces were being gathered to protect the Grand Signior and prevent another tragic overthrow.

Fear for the Safety of the King

At this dangerous moment, the officers feared that the King was about to be taken from their control. The Capa Aga declared firmly that he would not raise the Ichoglans, who were the royal pages, unless he received a written command from the King himself. He insisted that such an action was too serious to be taken without clear authority.

While this discussion was still going on, the servants of the Capa Aga awoke and overheard the conversation. They could not restrain themselves. Without waiting for further orders, they hurried off to awaken the pages in both the greater and the lesser chambers Ephesus Sightseeing.

The Alarm in the Greater Chamber

One of the servants, the Butler, entered what was known as the Greater Chamber of the Pages. It was about five hours into the night, when all should have been quiet. The chamber was very long, nearly eighty paces in length. The Butler ran to the center of the room, stopped suddenly, and clapped his hands loudly.

To make such noise in the Seraglio during the night was considered a serious offense, and greatly against palace rules. Some of the pages were awakened by the sound. They raised their heads in confusion and fear, shocked by such an unusual alarm. They immediately asked the reason for this disturbance.

Panic Spreads Among the Pages

The Butler clapped his hands again and cried out loudly, “Arise! The Grand Signior is about to be taken out of our hands!” At these words, the entire chamber sprang into action. The pages rose in great confusion and alarm.

More than six hundred Ichoglans rushed from their places. Some were half-dressed, others had no weapons. Some prepared themselves to fight, while others thought only of escaping. Many believed that the Janissaries had already entered the Seraglio and that the palace was under attack.

Confusion and Disorder in the Palace

In the darkness and confusion, order was lost. The pages ran in different directions, uncertain whether they should defend the King, flee for safety, or seek orders from their superiors. Fear spread quickly, and the quiet of the night was completely broken.

This sudden alarm showed how fragile the situation had become, and how close the royal household was to chaos, all because the safety of the Grand Signior seemed to hang by a thread.

The Immediate Removal of the Officer

All of this was done in a single moment, without delay. The officer in question was immediately removed from his post, and another man was appointed in his place. At the same time, the Oath of Allegiance was administered to the new officer. He swore loyalty to the Grand Signior and promised faithful service.

After this, he gathered together the gardeners of the palace, who numbered about five hundred men. He required all of them to swear obedience to the Grand Signior as well. They were ordered to remain on duty throughout the entire night, carefully guarding the gates and walls of the royal gardens, so that no enemy might enter or escape Ephesus Sightseeing.

Calling the Ichoglans into Service

Next, the officials turned their attention to the Ichoglans, who were the pages and young attendants of the Grand Signior. In order to act with privacy and avoid confusion, they proceeded quietly to the chamber of the Capa Aga, whose office gave him authority over all the youth of the Seraglio.

They knocked gently at his window. Hearing the noise, the guards approached and asked what was the matter. The visitors replied that the Capa Aga must be awakened and asked to speak with them at the window.

However, the Capa Aga first demanded to know who was speaking to him. When he was informed that it was the Vizier and the Kushir Aga, he replied that he was unwell and unable to rise from his bed. He asked them instead to speak to him through the window.

Suspicion and the Truth Revealed

They then told him that, by order of His Majesty, he was required to rise at once and awaken all the Ichoglans in the Seraglio, as an important matter demanded their presence. Still, the Capa Aga did not move. Because of this delay, some suspected that he might be involved in the conspiracy that threatened the Sultan.

Yet this suspicion was unfounded. The truth was that the Capa Aga was a very old man, nearly ninety years of age, and his body was weak and unhealthy. His refusal did not come from disloyalty, but from physical inability.

Solyman Aga Takes Command

Seeing the danger of further delay, Solyman Aga raised his voice loudly and cried out, commanding him directly: “Aga, raise the Ichoglans!” This firm order made clear that the safety of the Grand Signior required immediate action, and that hesitation could no longer be tolerated.

Thus, discipline was restored, and the servants of the palace were brought under control at a moment when loyalty and swift obedience were most needed.

The Fear of the Young Sultan

When the danger became clear, the Grand Signior, who was still a child, broke down in fear and sorrow. He cried openly and threw himself at the feet of Solyman Aga, begging for help. In his distress, he called out, “Lala, Lala, kurtar beni,” which means, “Tutor, Tutor, save me.” This cry showed both his youth and his terror.

Solyman Aga, deeply moved, lifted his young master into his arms, not without tears of his own. Together with the Vizier, he tried to comfort both the child and his mother. They swore solemnly that they would rather die themselves than live to witness such a terrible destruction of the royal house.

Procession to the Presence Chamber

After this, they escorted the young Sultan forward. Several ladies of the court carried lighted torches before them, guiding the way through the palace. Their destination was the Hozoda, also known as the Presence Chamber, where the principal officers of the court were always in attendance Ephesus Sightseeing.

As the torches approached, the guards stationed in the chamber were astonished. Seeing the light, they moved forward to learn what was happening. When they realized that the Grand Signior himself was coming, they hurried back at once to awaken their fellow guards and summon them to their duty.

The Sultan Addresses His Officers

The Grand Signior was seated upon the throne, which always stood ready in the Presence Chamber. The officers of the chamber, forty in number, gathered before him and respectfully asked whether His Majesty required their faithful service.

At this moment, Solyman Aga spoke with great force. He reminded them that those who eat the King’s bread are bound to serve the King. He declared that they had already allowed traitors to destroy Sultan Ibrahim, and now those same enemies sought to destroy the young ruler as well. It was now the duty of the Sultan’s most trusted servants to protect him with complete loyalty.

A Promise of Justice

Among the officers stood Mustapha Pasha, the Sword-Bearer to the Grand Signior and chief of the Presence Chamber. He was a man of great courage and firm resolve. Having already suspected the ill intentions of the Old Queen, he answered boldly that the Sultan should not be troubled. God willing, by the next day, the heads of his enemies would lie at his feet.

The First Act of Authority

Seeing that the situation allowed no delay, the Vizier and the other officials began to act immediately. Pen and ink were brought, and an official order was prepared for the Sultan’s signature. This decree commanded the arrest of Bostangi Pasha as a traitor, accusing him of breaking the law of the night by keeping open the gate of the King’s Garden.

Thus began the swift response of the court to defend the throne and restore order.

The Unusual Behavior of the Old Queen

It was observed that the Old Queen, contrary to her usual custom, had not yet gone to bed. On ordinary evenings, she retired to rest about two hours into the night. On this particular evening, however, she remained awake and chose instead to spend time in the company of her eunuchs and favorites. She entertained herself with music, singing, and other pleasures that were unusual for her. This strange behavior caused suspicion among those who watched the inner affairs of the palace.

The Vizier Takes Action

After a short discussion, the Vizier, along with Solyman Aga and several of the King’s eunuchs, decided to go to the quarters of the Old Queen. They attempted to enter by force, but were resisted by the Queen’s eunuchs, who stood in their way. At this moment, Solyman Aga, who was known for his strength and bold character, drew his dagger and struck the chief chamberlain, Bap Kapa Oglar, across the face.

This violent act caused the situation to escalate quickly. The other eunuchs who accompanied Solyman Aga rushed in with their daggers drawn. Seeing this, the Queen’s eunuchs fled in fear, leaving the Old Queen alone in her chamber Ephesus Sightseeing.

Arrest and Secrecy

The Old Queen was then placed under the custody of the King’s eunuchs. The eunuchs who had fled tried to escape from the Seraglio, but Solyman Aga had already ordered the gates to be shut. As a result, they were captured along with all the Queen’s favorites and secured safely under guard.

This operation was carried out with such secrecy that no alarm was raised in the nearby royal apartments. The palace remained silent, and no disturbance was heard.

Awakening the Young Queen

After securing the situation, the Vizier and Solyman Aga proceeded to the chamber where the King was sleeping. They gently lifted the curtain at the entrance and signaled for silence to the Ladies of the Guard. In the Grand Signior’s court, it was customary to communicate by signs to avoid noise, a silent language practiced with such skill that entire stories could be told without a word.

Following these silent instructions, the Ladies softly rubbed the feet of the Young Queen to wake her. When she awoke, they informed her that Solyman Aga wished to speak with her.

Fear and Panic

The Queen, greatly surprised, leapt from her bed. Before she could fully understand the matter, she became overcome with fear. Unable to control herself, she cried out loudly and ran to seize her son. In a state of distress, she caught him in her arms and cried out in terror, fearing for both his life and her own.

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 educated themselves, men who owed their skills, knowledge, and loyalty to the ruler. These young men were taught wisdom, virtue, and discipline, as well as provided for physically, so that by the time they reached maturity, they could serve the empire effectively. This system ensured that the Sultan was served by men he could promote without fear of envy and remove without danger.

Selection of Youths for High Office

The young men chosen for the empire’s highest offices were called Ichoglans. They were selected from Christian families, often taken as children in war or presented as gifts from distant lands. For example, the Algerians sometimes gave young boys captured in piracy. This system had a clear purpose: by taking children far from their families and teaching them new principles, customs, and loyalty to the Sultan, they became fully devoted to their master. Since they had no local ties or personal interests, they had no reason to betray their position Daily Ephesus Tours.

Physical Appearance and Character

The selection of these youths was not only about loyalty. They had to be of excellent appearance, well-shaped, and free from physical defects. It was believed that a pure and intelligent mind could only live in a healthy and pleasing body. In the Seraglio, I observed that those with fine features and strong, well-proportioned bodies were more capable of performing difficult duties and inspiring respect. Physical presence was considered a reflection of inner strength, discipline, and good character.

Purpose and Benefits

By training these young men from an early age, the Sultan created a loyal and skilled cadre of officials. They were educated in the arts of government, military skills, and court etiquette, ensuring that the empire had competent, disciplined, and obedient servants. The policy also prevented favoritism, nepotism, and local loyalties from interfering with the state. It was a system that combined careful selection, rigorous training, and strict loyalty, and it became one of the strongest pillars of Ottoman governance.

Land Held under the Crown

A Comparison with English Law

In England, lands held from the Crown are protected by fixed and settled laws. A person cannot lose his land except in cases of treason or open rebellion. Ownership is secure, and inheritance passes from father to son without fear of sudden loss. This legal certainty gives stability to families and allows them to enjoy the fruits of their labor with confidence Sofia Walking Tour.

In the Turkish system, however, land is held under very different conditions. Although land also passes from father to son, it is enjoyed only as a temporary right. The holder is not a true owner but a user of the land, depending entirely on the pleasure of the Emperor. The true ownership always remains with him.

Land Held at the Emperor’s Pleasure

Because the Emperor holds full authority over land, he may remove it from one family and give it to another whenever he chooses. Often, long-established families who have held land for many generations can be dispossessed suddenly, simply because the Emperor wishes to reward a stranger or satisfy a passing desire.

Such actions may cause sorrow among some and anger among others, yet no one dares to openly complain. The Emperor’s will is law, and his decisions cannot be questioned.

A Story of Imperial Favor

It is often told, sometimes with sighs and sometimes with resentment, how the Grand Signior, while hunting and overheated from the chase, once accepted a cup of cool, clear water from a poor peasant. Pleased by this simple kindness, the Emperor rewarded the man beyond all expectation.

By a single word, he freed the peasant from paying rent to his landlord and granted him full possession of the cottage in which he lived, along with the woods, gardens, and fields he worked. This gift was made as secure by imperial command as any property in England is made by long deeds and legal documents.

The former landlord dared not call this act unjust. The Emperor’s will had made the peasant the rightful holder, and that same will had once given the land to the landlord before him.

Imperial Authority over Inheritance

In this system, rights such as tenant claims, customs, or long usage carry no force against the Emperor’s decision. Even if land has been passed down from father to son for many generations, it remains a gift of imperial favor.

Indeed, the longer a family has held such land, the more they are expected to acknowledge the Emperor’s generosity. For it was always within his power to take it away and give it to another.

Land Ownership under the Grand Signior

The Supreme Owner of the Land

All lands within the empire remain under the sole authority and gift of the Grand Signior. They are his by right, and their possession depends entirely on his will. No individual truly owns land in a permanent or independent way. The ruler grants land as a favor, and he may also remove it, except in one important case.

Protection of Religious Lands

The Grand Signior claims no right over lands that are dedicated to religious use. These lands are treated as sacred and protected. This rule is observed with great seriousness. Even if a Pasha later commits treason, any land or income that he previously gave to a mosque or religious temple remains secure. Such grants cannot be taken back by the ruler and are fully exempt from his authority Sofia Walking Tour.

This practice is strictly followed and respected, and it shows a strong regard for religious institutions. Once land is given to a mosque or holy place, it becomes untouchable. The law protects it, regardless of later political events or crimes committed by the donor.

Distribution of Land after Conquest

After new territories were conquered and the land was secured, the Grand Signior distributed houses, manors, and farms among the soldiers. These soldiers were known as Timars. The land was given to them as a reward for their courage, service, and hard labor in war.

However, this land was not given freely or without obligation. Each soldier was required to support a certain number of horses and armed men, depending on the size and value of the land he received. These troops had to be ready at all times to serve the Grand Signior whenever he called them to war.

Military Control and Stability

Because the land was held by soldiers, the entire country was strengthened and better defended. Armed men were spread across the land, making rebellion and disorder more difficult. The conquered people were kept under control, as military power was always close at hand.

This system ensured loyalty to the ruler while maintaining security throughout the empire. In this way, land ownership and military service were closely connected.

A Comparison with England

This system is not unlike the old system of knight-service once practiced in England. There, land was also held in return for military duty. In both systems, land was a reward for service, not a private right.

Through this method, the Grand Signior maintained control over both land and soldiers, reinforcing his authority and preserving the stability of the empire.

The Absolute Power of the Emperor

Absolute Rule as the Strength of the Empire

The absolute authority of the emperor is one of the greatest supports of the Turkish Empire. As explained before, the Turks first established their government on principles best suited to military discipline. From the beginning, their society was formed in war, obedience, and conquest. Because of this, their generals and princes—whose will and desires the people served—became absolute masters of the lives and property of their subjects Sofia Walking Tour.

Whatever the soldiers gained by the sword, through labor, danger, and suffering, did not belong to them personally. Instead, all that was conquered was considered the rightful possession of their great master, the emperor. In this system, service in war did not lead to personal ownership, but to increased power and wealth for the ruler alone.

Vast Lands Under One Authority

The greatness of the empire is shown in the immense lands it controls. The fertile fields of Asia, the pleasant plains of Tempe and Thrace, the rich and productive lands of Egypt fed by the Nile, and the luxury of Corinth all fall under the authority of one ruler. The resources of the Peloponnese, Athens, Lemnos, Chios, and Mytilene, along with many other islands of the Aegean Sea, are also included.

In addition, the spices of Arabia, the wealth of large parts of Persia, all of Armenia, and the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Bithynia, Phrygia, Lycia, Pamphylia, Palestine, Coele-Syria, and Phoenicia belong to the empire. Colchis and much of Georgia are also under its control.

Beyond these regions, the tributary principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia, as well as Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, and the best parts of Hungary, all contribute to the power and wealth of the state.

All Wealth Centered in One Person

All these lands and resources exist to satisfy the authority and needs of a single person. Across this vast territory, the lands, houses, castles, weapons, and fortresses are not considered private property. Instead, they are viewed as the personal possessions of the grand ruler.

The people may live on the land and work it, but they do so at the emperor’s pleasure. Their rights are not protected by law but depend entirely on his favor. Wealth, position, and security come only through obedience.

Absolute Power as a Political Principle

This concentration of property and power strengthens the empire by preventing division and rivalry among nobles. Because no subject truly owns land or authority, none can easily challenge the throne. In this way, absolute rule becomes the central principle that holds the empire together and preserves its unity.

For the Turkish state, the emperor’s absolute power is not only a form of government but the foundation of its strength and survival.

A People Shaped by Constant War

A Life Formed by Conflict

The entire condition and experience of this people has been shaped by continuous war. From their earliest beginnings, they lived by fighting, conquest, and military discipline. For this reason, it should not seem surprising or strange that their laws are harsh and, in many cases, arbitrary. A society formed in war naturally creates rules suited to command, obedience, and force rather than balance or mercy.

In such a system, the emperor stands above the law. His authority is absolute, and no legal boundary limits his will. Most of the customs, institutions, and practices of the state flow in one fixed direction, matching the high and unlimited power of the ruler. As a result, the people live in a condition of submission and oppression, which has become normal to them through long habit Sofia Walking Tour.

Tyranny as a Familiar Condition

It may appear strange to outsiders, but this people seem to thrive most under servitude. They appear more prosperous, stable, and content under tyranny than under freedom. This condition is as natural to them as a certain diet is to a body that has been raised on it since birth. What nourishes one people may harm another, and what feels oppressive to a free nation may feel ordinary or even necessary to those long accustomed to strict rule.

This does not mean that tyranny is good in itself, but rather that it fits the nature and history of this particular society. Their long experience has taught them obedience, not independence.

The Need for a Strong and Absolute Ruler

Not only is tyranny considered useful for governing this people, but it is also seen as necessary. Without a strong hand and firm control, they might grow restless, rebellious, and disorderly. A sudden introduction of liberty, unknown to them, could produce confusion rather than peace.

Furthermore, the vast size of the empire creates additional challenges. Its territories stretch across distant and remote regions, where rebellion or misrule can arise quickly. In such places, slow legal processes and formal trials would be ineffective. For this reason, swift prevention is preferred over careful judgment.

Suspicion as Authority

In this system, suspicion alone is often enough to justify action. The emperor does not need full proof, formal accusation, or public trial. Jealousy, doubt, or fear of disloyalty gives him sufficient authority to impose severe punishment. Speed and terror are considered more effective than fairness or patience.

Absolute Power as the Foundation of the State

All these practices depend entirely on the absolute power of the prince. This power is the main support of the Turkish state and the central principle upon which its greatness rests. Because this absolute authority is the chief maxim and foundation of their government, it deserves careful attention.

For this reason, it will be the main subject of the following chapter.

Severity as the Nature of the Turkish Government

A System Built on Force and Fear

In this form of government, severity, violence, and cruelty are not accidents but natural parts of the system. It would be a serious mistake to loosen control or ease the oppression under which the people live. They, and their ancestors before them, have been accustomed to this harsh rule since the earliest beginnings of the state. To suddenly introduce gentleness or freedom into such a system would cause disorder rather than peace.

In the same way, it would be equally wrong for a free-born nation—one used to good laws, personal liberty, and the mercy of a virtuous and Christian ruler—to suddenly impose tyranny upon itself. Such a change would turn freedom into slavery and destroy the foundations of that society. Every form of government must rule according to the habits and history of its people Sofia Walking Tour.

Origins in War and Military Rule

The Turkish civil government was born in a time of war. When the Turks first came out of Scythia, they lived by arms and conquest. They placed themselves under the command of a single general and followed him in battle. At that time, they had no written laws or civil institutions. Their only rules were military commands and the will of their leader.

These harsh and simple laws suited their purpose, which was conquest and expansion. Discipline, obedience, and force were necessary for survival and success. From these beginnings came a system that valued power above justice and strength above mercy.

Early Expansion and Internal Conflict

When Tangrolipix defeated the Persian Sultan and took his lands and authority, the path was opened for his followers to move out of Armenia and spread into new territories. Later, Cutlumuses revolted and formed a separate kingdom in Arabia. Other princes of the Seljuk family also divided power among themselves, either through war or inheritance.

During the early years of Turkish power, these divisions caused frequent conflict. Territories were gained and lost, and authority was unstable. Yet out of this disorder, a stronger power slowly emerged.

The Rise of Ottoman Power

Around the year 1300, Ottoman rose from very small beginnings. Through unusual fortune, military skill, and steady conquest, he absorbed the surrounding governments. One by one, smaller states were swallowed into the Ottoman tribe. Power was unified under a single ruler, and the foundations of the empire were firmly laid.

From this point onward, the empire continued to grow until it reached the size and strength it now holds. The system of severe rule, born in war and shaped by conquest, became fixed and lasting.

A Government Shaped by Its Past

Thus, the harshness of the Turkish government cannot be separated from its history. What began as martial necessity became permanent policy. Severity holds together what force first created, and the empire survives by the same means through which it was formed

Bulgarian Art and Its Distinct Path

Bulgarian art shows very little connection with Croatian art. The two traditions differ greatly in both artistic goals and methods. While Croatian artists focused strongly on form and technical perfection, Bulgarian artists followed a different direction. Their concerns were not centered on mastering classical techniques but on expressing everyday life and familiar surroundings.

Similarities with Slovenian Art

The main similarity between Bulgarian and Slovenian art lies in their democratic spirit. Both traditions show a strong tendency to choose subjects from local scenery and local people. Bulgarian artists often painted village life, ordinary citizens, and landscapes drawn from their immediate environment. This approach reflects a desire to represent real life rather than heroic history or idealized scenes Customized Istanbul Tours.

However, despite this shared interest in everyday subjects, Bulgarian and Slovenian art differ greatly in technique. Slovenian artists were closely connected to Neo-Impressionism and modern Western artistic movements. Bulgarian artists, by contrast, did not follow these trends as closely and developed their techniques in a more modest and independent way.

Differences from Serbian Art

When compared with Serbian art, Bulgarian art differs most clearly in its choice of subjects. Serbian artists strongly emphasized patriotic and historical themes, using art as a tool to inspire national pride. In Bulgarian art, this patriotic focus is almost entirely absent. Bulgarian painters rarely chose scenes from national history or political struggle.

Instead, they preferred quiet, personal subjects drawn from daily life. This difference gives Bulgarian art a calmer and more intimate character.

Form and Artistic Development

In terms of form, it must be admitted that Serbian artists were generally superior to Bulgarian artists during this period. Serbian painters showed greater technical skill and more freedom from traditional styles. They also produced several artists of outstanding talent, such as Marko Murat and Paja Jovanović, whose work reached an international level. Bulgarian art had not yet produced artists of equal reputation or technical mastery.

Strength of Bulgarian Portraiture

In one important area, however, Bulgarian art stands above not only Serbian art but also Croatian and Slovenian art: portrait painting. Bulgarian artists showed exceptional ability in capturing character, expression, and individuality. Their portraits often reveal deep psychological insight and emotional honesty.

This strength in portraiture reflects the Bulgarian artist’s close observation of people and everyday life. Through portrait painting, Bulgarian art found its most successful and distinctive form of expression, setting it apart within the broader Southern Slav artistic world.