The Sultan and His People

"The Sultan and His People" by C. Oscanyan provides a window into the 19th-century Ottoman Empire, exploring the society, culture, and politics of the time, along with the connection between the Sultan and his people. Seeking to correct misconceptions and challenge biases about Eastern life, Oscanyan paints a vibrant picture of Turkish society. The book begins with a thoughtful look at how knowledge of the past endures compared to the fleeting nature of life, establishing the author's aim to deepen Western understanding of Turkish culture and address misunderstandings that come from unfamiliarity. These initial ideas pave the way for a detailed exploration of Turkish society, covering its history, religion, government, and traditions from the viewpoint of someone who lived in Constantinople.