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 group. They were chosen for their strong bodies, healthy appearance, and promising character. From the beginning, they were considered different from the others and were distributed into several companies as the needs of the palace required.

Their discipline was very strict and severe. The purpose of this hard training was to teach them absolute obedience, patience, and readiness to serve. To achieve this, they were subjected to long watches, fasting, physical hardship, and other forms of discipline. Through these practices, they were trained to endure difficulty without complaint and to follow orders without hesitation Customized Tours Istanbul.

Clothing, Appearance, and Living Conditions

Their clothing was made of coarse cloth, produced in Salonica, which in ancient times was called Thessalonica. Their caps were made of felt and shaped like a sugar-loaf, usually of a natural hair color, as shown in contemporary illustrations. This simple dress reflected their humble status and their life of discipline.

Their lodgings were plain and practical. They lived under simple sheds or pent-houses, built along the walls of the Seraglio. Their daily food consisted mainly of meat and rice, which was sufficient to sustain their strength but offered no luxury or indulgence.

Education and Physical Training

Some of the Agiamoglans were taught reading and writing. These were considered the most intelligent and capable of learning higher skills. However, the majority were trained mainly in physical activity. Their exercises included running, jumping, wrestling, throwing heavy iron bars, and other athletic practices. These activities were designed to build strength, agility, and endurance.

Service and Advancement

Those Agiamoglans attached to the Royal Seraglio were not sent to become Janissaries. Instead, some were promoted to serve powerful officials, known as Pashas, because of their loyalty and good service. Through this path, they could gain wealth and a comfortable livelihood.

Many others were employed in caring for the Grand Signior’s tents during military campaigns. They also managed baggage, supplies, and other necessities during journeys and wars.

Agiamoglans placed in other quarters outside the Seraglio, however, were mainly trained to become Janissaries as they grew older and stronger. Their education was directed toward military service, replacing soldiers who had died. These will be discussed in greater detail in the section on the military system.

The Rise of the Bostancıs

Among the Bostancıs (also written as Bostangees), some were promoted to a higher rank and were called Hasaki, a title that means Royal or belonging directly to the Sultan. These men were no longer ordinary servants. Instead, they were entrusted with carrying messages sent personally by the Grand Signior himself. Because of this duty, they were men of special trust and authority.

Although their clothing was generally similar to that of other Bostancıs, there were small but important differences. The Hasakis wore garments made of finer cloth, and their collars and belts were of better quality. These details marked their higher status and made them easily recognizable within the palace system, even if their outward appearance remained simple compared to high officials.

Authority of the Bostancı Pasha

The Bostancı Pasha held very great power. Although he himself originally rose from the Agiamoglans and once wore a simple felt cap like other servants, his authority later became wide and impressive. He was placed in charge of all the gardens, parks, and pleasure houses of the Grand Signior Customized Tours Istanbul.

In addition to this, he supervised the waterworks, fountains, and canals connected with the palace and surrounding lands. His responsibility was not limited to the city alone. His power extended along the Bosporus, all the way to the entrance of the Black Sea. This made him one of the most influential officials in the region.

Control Over the Countryside

The Bostancı Pasha also exercised authority over the countryside at a considerable distance from Constantinople. He had the right to punish acts of disorder, immorality, and excess committed in villages and rural areas near the imperial estates. In this role, he acted both as a guardian of public order and as a protector of the Sultan’s lands.

Because of this wide jurisdiction, the Bostancı Pasha was greatly feared and respected. His officers enforced discipline not only within palace grounds but also in nearby towns and villages.

Path to High Office

By the favor of the Grand Signior, the Bostancı Pasha could rise even higher. He was eligible to become Pasha of important provinces such as Grand Cairo, Babylon, or Buda, and could even attain the highest rank of state office, known as Vizier Azam, or Grand Vizier.

Thus, a man who began life as a servant could, through loyalty and service, rise to one of the most powerful positions in the Ottoman Empire.

Origins of the Palace Servants

These servants were rarely the sons of native-born Turks. Instead, they were gathered each year, as previously mentioned, from the children of poor Christian families living mainly in Morea and Albania. This practice caused great harm to those regions, as many villages were left thinly populated due to the regular removal of young boys.

The number collected each year was commonly reported to be around two thousand. These boys were taken far from their families and brought to Constantinople, where their lives were completely changed. From that moment onward, they became servants of the Ottoman state and were trained for various forms of labor and service.

Selection and Assignment in Constantinople

Upon arrival in Constantinople, the boys were first presented before the Vizier, who examined them and decided their future roles. According to his judgment and personal inclination, they were assigned to different places and duties.

Some were sent to the Seraglios of Galata, Okmeydanı, or Adrianople, while others were placed in the city to learn useful trades such as carpentry, metalwork, or tailoring. A number of boys were sent to the sea, where they were trained as sailors and taught the skills of navigation. These assignments ensured that the state benefited from their labor in many different areas Customized Tours Istanbul.

Service in the Great Seraglio

A select group was sent directly to the Great Seraglio, where they performed the hardest and most demanding tasks. Their duties included serving in the stables, working in the kitchens, digging and maintaining the gardens, chopping wood, rowing the Grand Signior’s barge, and performing any other labor ordered by their superiors.

These boys lived under strict discipline and were expected to obey without question. Their daily lives were filled with physical work, leaving little room for rest or personal freedom.

Supervision and Discipline

Over these servants were placed officials known as Oda-bashis, men who had served longer and gained experience within the system. These supervisors received a daily wage of about fifteen aspers, along with two garments each year and linen cloth for shirts and handkerchiefs. They were responsible for maintaining order, discipline, and efficiency among the boys under their control.

Above the Oda-bashis stood the Bostancı Pasha, who held absolute authority over all those known as Bostancıs, or gardeners. This group was extremely large, numbering as many as ten thousand men working in and around the Seraglios and imperial gardens of the Grand Signior.

A System Built on Control and Labor

This system, though highly organized, relied heavily on forced labor and strict control. It provided the Ottoman court with a steady supply of workers while deeply affecting the communities from which these boys were taken. Through discipline, hierarchy, and constant supervision, the palace ensured that every servant played a role in sustaining imperial life.

The Fate of the Sultan’s Consorts After His Death

After the death of the Grand Signior, different rules applied to the women of the Seraglio depending on whether they had borne sons or daughters. The mothers of daughters were granted freedom to leave the Seraglio. They were allowed to live outside its walls and could marry men of rank and quality if they wished. This freedom marked the end of their formal connection to the imperial household.

However, the situation was very different for the women who had given birth to sons. These mothers were transferred to the Old Seraglio, where they lived in strict seclusion. Their lives there were quiet, restrained, and removed from public affairs. They were not permitted to leave or remarry. This confinement usually lasted for the rest of their lives.

There was only one exception to this rule. If a son of one of these women later succeeded to the throne, especially after the death of a first heir, he could release his mother from her confinement. In such cases, she would return to public life and share in her son’s power, honor, and prosperity. Until that moment, however, she remained isolated and forgotten by the world Customized Tours Istanbul.

The Agiam-Oglans

Until now, we have spoken of the Ichoglans, or pages, as well as mutes, dwarfs, eunuchs, and the women of the Seraglio. It is now necessary to describe another group of servants known as the Agiam-Oglans. These individuals held lower positions and were responsible for the more laborious and humble duties within the palace.

The Agiam-Oglans were usually captives taken during war or purchased from Tartar traders. Most commonly, they were Christian boys taken from their families at the age of ten or twelve. Those who showed physical strength rather than intellectual promise were chosen for hard labor and domestic service.

Duties and Occupations of the Agiam-Oglans

The Agiam-Oglans were divided into various roles, each essential to the daily functioning of the Seraglio:

Porters, who carried heavy loads.

Bostanjis, or gardeners, who maintained the palace grounds.

Baltagis, also called hatchet-men, responsible for cutting and carrying wood.

Aşçılar, or cooks, along with all kitchen staff.

Peyks and Solaks, who served as runners and guards.

Butchers, who prepared meat for the court.

Helvacıs, or confectioners, who made sweets and preserves.

Hospital attendants, who cared for sick pages.

In addition to these roles, there were many others assigned to basic and demanding tasks. Though their status was low, their labor supported the entire structure of palace life.

Order, Labor, and Discipline

The Agiam-Oglans lived under strict discipline and obedience. Their lives were shaped by work, control, and service, reflecting the rigid hierarchy of the Ottoman court. Every role, no matter how humble, was carefully organized to maintain order within the Seraglio.

The End of the Private Ceremony

After the formal ceremonies and private meeting have ended, the woman chosen by the Grand Signior is returned to the care of the Kadın Kahya, also called the Mother of the Maids. She is escorted back with the same music and singing that accompanied her earlier. This return procession follows strict custom and order, reflecting the ceremonial nature of life within the Seraglio.

Once returned, she is bathed and cleansed again, both as a matter of tradition and preparation for her new status. From that moment, she is given a separate lodging and attendants appropriate to her position. If she has gained particular favor, she is recognized as a Hünkâr Asakişi, meaning a royal concubine, and receives privileges above those of the other women.

Titles and Honors of the Sultan’s Consorts

If it is her fortune to conceive and give birth to a son, her status rises greatly. She is then called Haseki Sultan, a title of high honor. On this occasion, she is formally celebrated and symbolically crowned with a small golden coronet decorated with precious stones. This ceremony marks her elevated position within the court and secures her influence Customized Tours Istanbul.

Other women who bear children to the Sultan do not receive the same degree of honor but are still distinguished by rank. They are given titles such as Baş Haseki or İkinci Haseki, meaning first or second concubine, and are treated with respect according to their position.

Marriage of the Sultan’s Daughters

The daughters born to the Grand Signior are often married at a very young age, sometimes at four or five years old. These marriages are arranged with powerful officials, such as pashas or governors, and are celebrated with great ceremony and splendor. From that time onward, the husband is responsible for the daughter’s education, household, and court.

He must provide a palace suitable to her rank and maintain her with the honor and dignity appropriate to a princess of the Ottoman house. These marriages are less about companionship and more about political alliance, loyalty, and status.

A Notable Example from the Royal Family

Sultan Ibrahim, the father of the present Grand Signior, is said to have married three of his daughters while they were still very young. One of them, known as Gevher Han Sultan, is reported to have had several husbands in succession. Despite these marriages, it was widely believed that she remained untouched, as her husbands were often elderly or died soon after marriage.

Her most recent husband was Gürcü Mehmed Pasha of Buda, a man of great wealth and advanced age. Though able to support the magnificence of her court, he was far removed from the vigor of youth. Like her previous husbands, he fulfilled the political and ceremonial duties of marriage rather than any personal role.

Power, Ceremony, and Control

These customs reveal how marriage, honor, and rank within the Ottoman court were closely tied to politics and power. Personal life was strictly governed by ceremony, tradition, and the authority of the Sultan, leaving little room for private choice.

Affection and Attachment Among Women

According to early observers, strong emotional attachments were also said to exist among women within Ottoman society. These writers claimed that affectionate bonds often formed between women, especially in enclosed environments such as large households and palace apartments. It was believed that these feelings were sometimes intense and long-lasting.

Special mention was made of older women who were said to show great affection toward younger women. They reportedly gave them fine clothing, jewelry, and money, sometimes spending far beyond their means. In some cases, these gifts were said to continue until the giver faced financial hardship. Such actions were described as driven by emotional attachment rather than reason or self-interest.

Writers of the period believed that these relationships were widespread throughout the empire. They claimed they were especially common in Constantinople, within the imperial palace, and in the private apartments of the Sultan’s household. Whether exaggerated or not, these accounts were used to illustrate how strong emotions could develop in closed societies where daily life was spent largely among members of the same sex.

The Mutes and Dwarfs of the Ottoman Court

In addition to the pages, the Ottoman court employed a special group of attendants known as Bizeban, or Mutes. These men were born deaf and, as a result, were unable to speak. Because they could not hear spoken words, they communicated entirely through signs and gestures Istanbul Private Tours.

Their number was said to be around forty. At night, they were housed in chambers near the pages. During the day, they stood near the mosque belonging to the pages. There, they practiced and perfected their system of silent communication, which became a highly developed sign language understood only among themselves.

Duties and Importance of the Mutes

The Mutes served important roles in the palace. Because they could not speak, they were considered especially trustworthy for sensitive tasks. They were often used to carry confidential messages, enforce discipline, or attend private ceremonies. Their silence was seen as a form of security, as they could not repeat what they witnessed.

Some accounts also suggest that the Mutes were used during executions or punishments, precisely because they could perform these acts without speaking or spreading information. This made them both feared and respected within the court.

Dwarfs in the Palace

Alongside the Mutes were dwarfs, who were also kept within the palace. They often served ceremonial or personal roles and were part of the inner household. Like the Mutes, they lived close to the center of power and observed the private life of the court.

These descriptions of women’s society, Mutes, and dwarfs offer insight into the unique structure of the Ottoman court. They show how emotion, secrecy, and service shaped daily life within the palace, creating a world very different from life outside its walls.

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 accounts, some sultans allowed personal affection to influence their decisions at court. Whether exaggerated or not, such stories were used by observers to explain sudden rises in rank and unusual displays of favor within the palace.

Sultan Murad and His Favorite

One frequently cited example concerns Sultan Murad. It was said that he became deeply attached to an Armenian boy named Mustafa. Writers of the time claimed that this attachment led the Sultan, who was otherwise known as a cautious and capable ruler, into many unwise actions. His affection was described as so strong that it clouded his judgment and caused public criticism.

In another instance, Sultan Murad reportedly selected a young man solely for his beauty from the novitiates of Galata. This youth was brought into the Haz-Oda, the private chamber of royal presence. Within a very short time, the Sultan elevated him to the rank of Silahdar Ağa, or Sword-Bearer, which was among the highest offices in the Seraglio. Such rapid promotion caused surprise and resentment among experienced officials Istanbul Private Tours.

The Sultan’s Absolute Authority

These examples illustrate the absolute power of the Sultan. Advancement in the palace did not always depend on learning, service, or seniority. Personal favor alone could change a person’s fate. In a system where the ruler’s will was law, no one could openly question such decisions.

The Case of the Constantinopolitan Page

Writers also claimed that a later Sultan became deeply attached to a young man from Constantinople. This youth, a page from the musicians’ school, was called Kul Oğlu, meaning “son of a slave.” Despite his humble status, he became the Sultan’s chief favorite.

The Sultan reportedly could not bear to be without him. He dressed him in garments similar to his own, allowed him to ride beside him in public, and commanded all officials to honor him. The youth was treated almost as if he were a companion of the empire itself.

Reactions Within the Seraglio

Such displays of favor caused jealousy and unease within the palace. Officials feared sudden loss of influence, while others sought to gain favor through similar means. These situations reveal how personal attachment could shape politics and careers in the Ottoman court.

Whether fully accurate or shaped by bias, these accounts highlight the role of personal favor in imperial governance. They show how power, affection, and ambition were closely linked in the Seraglio, and how the ruler’s private choices could affect the entire structure of the state.

The Limits of Turkish Philosophy

From what has been described so far, the reader may understand the general depth of Turkish philosophy as it was observed by early writers. Although it did not reach the speculative heights of European scholars and philosophers, it was not without practical wisdom. The Ottomans possessed enough knowledge and experience to avoid being deceived in their dealings with other nations.

More importantly, through careful management and discipline, they did not lose control of their territories. Their strength lay not in abstract theory, but in order, caution, and firm administration of affairs Private Istanbul Tour.

Affection and Friendship Among the Pages of the Seraglio

Since the previous chapter mentioned the strong emotional bonds found among the pages of the Seraglio, it is necessary to explain how these relationships were understood and discussed at the time.

According to the explanations given by some Ottoman teachers, a form of Platonic affection was recognized and even praised. This affection was described as virtuous and honorable, and as a step toward a higher love of God. It was believed to begin with admiration of beauty and to lead the soul toward spiritual perfection.

Ideals and Reality in Court Life

Writers of the period often claimed that this idea of platonic love was used to explain and justify close emotional attachments among the pages. They argued that such bonds were presented as moral and disciplined in theory, though in practice they sometimes caused disorder.

Because the pages lived under strict supervision and isolation from normal family life, strong emotional attachments could develop. These bonds were expressed through looks, gestures, and signs rather than open speech, as the pages were constantly watched by eunuchs and officers.

Discipline and Punishment

When rivalries or conflicts arose from these attachments, they sometimes disturbed the order of the Seraglio. In such cases, discipline was enforced strictly. Some pages were expelled, punished, or sent away from the palace to distant places. These punishments were meant to restore order and serve as warnings to others.

Influence of Senior Figures

It was also claimed that senior officials within the Seraglio sometimes showed strong personal favor toward particular pages. These officials would look for opportunities to see them during public duties, religious visits, or bathing rituals. Gifts and favors were sometimes offered.

If a page gained the protection of a powerful patron, he might be taken into that official’s service. In such cases, the page could benefit from advancement, security, and shared fortune.

These accounts reflect how early observers attempted to explain emotional life within the closed world of the Seraglio. Whether exaggerated or misunderstood, they reveal the pressures of strict discipline, isolation, and ambition in an environment where personal favor could greatly shape one’s future.

Religious Instruction and Translation

Many of the students devoted themselves to books that treated the matters of faith and religious law. These works were usually written in Arabic and were carefully translated into Turkish so that they could be better understood by ordinary learners. Among the most commonly studied books were Şurût, Salat, Mukaddime, Mülteka, and Hidaye.

Teachers explained these texts in a clear and practical way. They did not merely read them, but discussed their meaning and importance. In this manner, they instructed students of lower rank and lesser knowledge, often using a catechism style, with questions and answers. This helped ensure that even the least educated could understand the basic duties of religion.

Moral Teaching Through Poetry

In addition to books of law and doctrine, students also read poetry written in Persian and Arabic. These poems followed strict rules of rhyme and meter and were admired for both their beauty and wisdom. They were often compared to famous moral verses, as they contained excellent lessons about right conduct Private Istanbul Tour.

The poems focused on moral behavior, devotion to God, and reflections on the troubles, illusions, and temporary nature of the world. Many students memorized these verses and repeated them in conversation whenever the subject allowed. In this way, poetry became both a form of education and a guide for daily life.

Limited Knowledge of Other Sciences

As for other sciences such as logic, medicine, metaphysics, mathematics, and the broader learning taught in universities, most of these students were largely unfamiliar with them. Such subjects were not considered essential for their future roles in religion or administration.

The only exception was music, which was regarded as a branch of mathematics. For this reason, there was a special school for music within the Seraglio. There, selected students learned rhythm, melody, and performance, which were used in ceremonies and court life.

Astrology and Popular Beliefs

Some individuals living in Constantinople learned certain rules of astrology. Although this knowledge was limited, they applied it eagerly. These men often involved themselves in predictions and forecasts about future events, especially concerning the affairs of the Empire.

They believed that the movements of the stars could reveal coming changes, successes, or disasters. While this practice was not part of formal education, it remained popular and influential among certain groups.

General Character of Their Learning

Overall, the education of these students focused mainly on religion, morality, language, and discipline, rather than scientific inquiry. Their learning was practical and traditional, shaped by the needs of faith and government rather than curiosity about nature.

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 skill with the pen. In the Ottoman state, clear writing and careful record-keeping were highly valued. Those who excelled in this area aimed to become Reis Efendi, or Secretary of State, Lord Treasurer, Secretary of the Treasury, or officers of the Dispensary and similar departments.

Such positions required accuracy, discipline, and deep familiarity with official language. Success in these roles brought both prestige and influence, as these men worked close to the center of government.

Religious Offices and a Quiet Life

Others chose a different path. Instead of serving in state administration, they prepared themselves for religious offices. Some became imams or parish priests of major mosques founded by the Sultan or members of the royal family. These posts offered a peaceful, secure, and respectable life.

Although such positions lacked political power, they provided a steady and sufficient income. Those who followed this path lived quietly, free from the dangers and intrigues of court life.

Hafızes Guardians of the Quran

Another group devoted themselves entirely to religious learning and memorization. These men aimed to become Hafız, meaning preservers of the Quran. A Hafız learned the entire Quran by heart, a task requiring great discipline and devotion Private Istanbul Tour.

Because of this achievement, they were held in great respect. Their persons were considered almost sacred, just like the Quran itself, which was seen as the foundation and repository of the law. Their presence at religious ceremonies added honor and solemnity.

Lovers of Learning and Philosophy

Those who showed a stronger attachment to books than others were called Talib-i Ilmi, meaning lovers of knowledge or philosophy. Although very few reached what might be called true philosophical learning, they still achieved respectable positions.

Many became readers of the Quran, whose duty was to recite passages for the benefit of the souls of the deceased. Wealthy believers often left money or property for this purpose, and these readers were supported by such legacies.

Study, Reading, and Reflection

In certain houses and schools, these students gathered to read books that treated religious subjects, moral instruction, and practical guidance for life. Their studies were quieter and more reflective than those of men seeking active office.

Through these different paths—administration, religion, memorization, and study—the Seraglio produced men suited to many roles. Each path offered honor in its own way and reflected the varied needs of the Ottoman state and society.

Effects of Strict Discipline and Separation

Because of the strict discipline of the Seraglio and the complete separation from women, the young men grew almost entirely unfamiliar with the female sex. Having little or no conversation with women, their natural desires found no ordinary outlet. As a result, the strong emotions of youth were often directed toward one another.

The energy and passion that might otherwise have been guided toward family life or marriage were instead turned inward, creating intense admiration wherever beauty or grace was found. This condition was widely spoken of among the Turks themselves and was seen as a natural result of confinement and discipline. Because this subject was much discussed, it was often treated as a separate matter, deserving its own explanation.

Direction of Youthful Affection

The writers of the time believed that when young people were denied natural objects of affection, their emotions sought other paths. This admiration was often expressed in strong language of affection and loyalty. It was not always understood in the modern sense, but rather as a mixture of friendship, admiration, and emotional closeness shaped by their environment.

Such feelings were influenced by literature, education, and shared daily life, rather than by freedom of choice.

Persian Books Commonly Studied

Much of this emotional and intellectual world was shaped by the books they read, especially those written in the Persian language. Among the most commonly read works were Danistan, Schahidi, Pend-i Attar, Gulistan, and the poems of Hafiz. These writings were admired for their beauty of language, wisdom, and moral lessons.

There were also books written in Turkish that mixed Arabic and Persian words, both in prose and poetry. These works were lively, clever, and full of sharp expressions. They were meant to delight the mind as well as to teach.

Popular Romances and Stories

Among the most popular books were romances such as Kırk Vezir, Hümayunname, Delile ve Kemine, Risale-i Cale, and Seyyid Battal. These stories were especially loved by the most lively and imaginative students. They encouraged creativity, emotion, and expressive speech Guided Istanbul Tour.

Differences in Temperament and Study

Not all students were alike. Those of a more cheerful and active nature preferred romances and poetic works. Others, who were more thoughtful and serious, showed greater patience and followed a stricter method in their studies. These students focused more closely on careful reading, reflection, and deeper understanding.

Together, these different paths of learning formed a balanced education, shaped by discipline, literature, and the unique conditions of life within the Seraglio.

Learning for the Duties of High Office

A great minister, or any high officer of the Empire, was expected to perform his duties with knowledge and judgment. For this reason, education in the Seraglio prepared young men to understand the work of the law as well as matters of religion. Through their studies, they were enabled to inspect the writings and decisions of the Kadis, or judges, and of other legal officers within their jurisdiction.

This learning helped them govern wisely and fairly. It also provided them with knowledge and material for serious discussion about religion, law, and public order. Such understanding was considered necessary for anyone entrusted with authority Guided Istanbul Tour.

Study of the Persian Language

To further refine these young men and adorn them with more polished accomplishments, the next stage of learning was the Persian language. Persian was valued for its elegance, richness, and expressive power. It supplied refined words and eloquence, qualities considered fitting for the court of a prince.

At the same time, Persian was believed to improve the Turkish language, which was often described by early writers as plain and limited in expression. Persian study was thought to correct roughness in speech and to add sweetness and grace to conversation.

Manners, Literature, and Moral Ideals

The study of Persian also shaped behavior and character. It taught students gentle manners and proper conduct, helping them move and speak with dignity at court. Through Persian romances and stories, they were introduced to ideals of courage, generosity, loyalty, and virtue.

These writings raised their thoughts toward noble actions and inspired them to imitate the heroic and moral examples found in Persian literature. In this way, learning was not only intellectual but also moral.

Friendship and Courtly Affection

From this education grew a form of refined and platonic affection among some of the students. This bond encouraged loyalty, friendship, and mutual respect. Such friendships were often accompanied by courtesy and gallantry, equal to what might be found in any civilized part of the world.

These relationships were carefully guided by discipline and rules, preventing disorder while allowing companionship and trust to grow among the young men.

Discipline and Restraint

As for romantic relations with women, the strict discipline of the Seraglio allowed little opportunity for such attachments. The rules were firm, and behavior was closely observed. This restraint was intended to keep the students focused on learning, service, and obedience, rather than personal desire.

Through this combination of study, discipline, and refinement, the Seraglio aimed to produce men capable of serving the Sultan with wisdom, loyalty, and honor.