OTTOMANICA - 1

“Is it possible to identify the ‘essence’ of Ottoman kingship, and, if so, what were the core motivating principles that governed the dynasty over its 600-year lifespan and how continuous and consistent were they?” Starting with these questions, in this important work Rhoads Murphey delves deep into the central role of the sultan, charting a roadmap to understand the spirit of the empire. Drawing on a rich and diverse body of sources, Murphey explores the essence of Ottoman rule by examining the tools, symbols, and expressions the sultan employed while residing in his palace or moving around the fringes of his empire, while punishing or pardoning, while displaying generosity through favors and rewards, and while addressing friends or foes.

Rhoads Murphey completed his education in Turkish and Ottoman history in London and Chicago, studying under leading figures in the field such as Victor Ménage, Tibor Halasi-Kun, and Halil İnalcık. After working at Columbia University from 1982 to 1991, he has been at the Centre for Byzantine, Ottoman and Modern Greek Studies at the University of Birmingham since 1992. He is the author of numerous books and articles, particularly on early modern Ottoman political, economic, military, and cultural history.

Büşra Arabacı received her undergraduate degree from Şehir University and her master's degree in history from TOBB University of Economics and Technology. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in History at Hacettepe University. She has published works on 19th-century Ottoman environmental history and maritime history.