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Prostitution in the Ottoman Empire: A Q&A
This Q&A explores the history of prostitution in the Ottoman Empire, discussing its legal status, social context, and the government's evolving policies towards it.
Turkish
Turkey
Middle EastHistoryLawSocietyProstitutionOttoman
Ottoman Empireİttihat Ve Terakki
Ii. AbdülhamidBurcu BelliIi. Mehmet
- How did prostitutes dress in the Ottoman Empire?
- Lower-class brothels often featured women in semi-nude attire, while upper-class establishments featured women in expensive clothing and elaborate makeup. The attire reflected the clientele and the establishment's social standing.
- What is the role of prostitution in Ottoman law?
- In Ottoman law, zina (adultery) was emphasized more than prostitution, with prostitution considered a subset of zina. Theoretically, those committing zina faced severe punishments, although these were rarely enforced in practice.
- What was the client profile of brothels in the Ottoman Empire?
- The clientele of brothels varied widely, ranging from newly arrived single men in lower-class establishments to pashas, bureaucrats, and merchants in upper-class ones. The Ottoman government's reluctance to intervene stemmed from the unpredictable nature of those involved.
- What is the relationship between the decline of polygamy and the rise of prostitution in the late 19th century?
- The decrease in polygamy and increase in prostitution in the late 19th century were linked to rural-urban migration. Men migrating to cities for work, often leaving their wives behind or remaining unmarried, increased the demand for prostitution.
- What is the difference between the 1884 and 1915 regulations on prostitution, and what does this say about the evolution of Ottoman central authority?
- The 1884 and 1915 regulations on prostitution differed in approach; the former focused on control and monitoring for public health reasons, whereas the latter was more punitive. This shift reflects the Ottoman government's growing confidence and capacity in managing such issues over time.