30. Sultanas to Slaves: Voices from the Harem

In this episode of the "Empire" podcast, historian Bettany Hughes delves into the lives of women in the Ottoman Empire. She starts with a story about her warm reception in Greece while discussing Ottoman history, leading into a rich examination of the harem—its intricacies and the diverse levels of power and freedom women experienced. Hughes reveals an intriguing connection between Elizabeth I and the Ottoman Valide Sultan Safiye, highlighting a little-known exchange that included gifts and beauty advice. The conversation also examines the role of eunuchs and the broader social dynamics of Ottoman society, drawing comparisons with the Mughal Empire and European cultures. Through this discussion, listeners gain a deeper appreciation of the varied experiences of women in the Ottoman Empire, from enslavement to wielding significant political power, challenging widely held misconceptions about the harem.