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.