2 replies to this topic

[sunny]

The situation of the Ottoman imperial family and wealthy members of the ruling class was considerably different to that of ordinary women. Women were more likely to be secluded in harems and, if they went out, it was with an escort.



http://www.hurriyetd...1&NewsCatID=438

[Abi]

I didn't realise that the woman in the harem left when they were about 25 if they were of no interest to the Suultan. I was pleased to read that they were given a dowry though.

[sunny]

I wonder if they still left if they had children by the sultan as I believe there was a lot of jealousy and it was not unheard of for one wife to poison the children of another's to enhance her children's prospects.