Physical Training and Strength
When the young men reach adolescence and full physical strength, they begin serious training in manly exercises. They are taught […]
Clothing and Diet
The young men in the Seraglio are well-dressed, wearing good-quality English cloth and linen, but not overly fine or luxurious.
Admission to the Schools
When the youths are admitted to the Seraglio, they are placed in one of two schools, called Oda. These are
Discipline and Obedience
The Turks believe that those who know how to obey are best prepared to govern. At first, young men in
The Imperial Seat of the Ottoman Emperors
The Ottoman Emperors’ court included three main schools or colleges of education for young men who were destined to serve
The Attendance of Young Men in the Courts
In the courts of the great men of the Ottoman Empire, it was customary for their personal attendants to be
The Careful Choice of Officers
The Turks were very careful in choosing their officers. They preferred to be served by men they had raised and
The Education of Young Men in the Seraglio
In the Ottoman Empire, the education of young men in the Seraglio (the royal palace) was carefully organized to prepare
Lessons for Christians
From the example of the Turks, all Christians can learn an important lesson about obedience and law. The Turks show
The Danger of Unlimited Power
From these events, we can observe a general truth: those who hold unlimited power are always at risk. Their power