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The document explores the harem as a significant political institution rather than merely a private domestic space for women. It highlights the organized social structure within the harem and the influential roles women played in shaping state affairs, despite being confined to the private sphere. Additionally, it critiques Western perceptions of the harem, emphasizing the impact of Orientalism on modern views and the historical understanding of its importance.

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akshtalodhi
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28 views12 pages

Assignment

The document explores the harem as a significant political institution rather than merely a private domestic space for women. It highlights the organized social structure within the harem and the influential roles women played in shaping state affairs, despite being confined to the private sphere. Additionally, it critiques Western perceptions of the harem, emphasizing the impact of Orientalism on modern views and the historical understanding of its importance.

Uploaded by

akshtalodhi
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

The Politics of the Harem

and the Public Sphere


Introduction
Traditionally, the harem was the private section of the
household, reserved for women, children, and
servants, and not necessarily a place of leisure or
indulgence.

COMMON MICONCEPTINS: Western


perspectives often exaggerated the harem's role as a
space for exotic pleasures, ignoring its social and
political importance.
Overview
The harem was the private,
domestic space for women in
elite households, while the
public sphere was the
domain of political and
economic activities. These
separate spheres shaped
gender roles and power
dynamics.
Harem in social and political contexts
Social Structure of the Harem The Political Role of the Harem

Hierarchy within the Harem


Influence on State Affairs
Roles and Responsibilities

The structure was highly organized with the Valide Powerful women could influence sultans, shape
Sultan (queen mother) at the top, followed by the diplomatic policies, and be involved in succession
Haseki Sultan (favorite consort), other consorts, and disputes
concubines. Examples: Figures like Hürrem Sultan and Kösem
Women managed household affairs, took part in Sultan played key roles in Ottoman politics,
child-rearing, and were involved in cultural and impacting decisions and even state governance and
educational activities. Noorjahan,Rajiya Sultan etc.
Key people
RAJIYA SULTAN NOORJAHAN
The Public Sphere and Gender Roles
• The public sphere was the space for governance, military, and economic activities
predominantly male-dominated.
• Gender Segregation: Cultural norms placed women in the private sphere,
restricting direct access to political power.
Overlapping of the Harem and
Public Sphere
Connection to Power: Despite segregation, women in the
harem influenced public affairs through their
relationships with rulers and their involvement in court
politics.
CASE STUDIES
• The music of Miles Davis
• The artwork of Alma Thomas
Western Perceptions and
Orientalism

• Orientalism: Western art and literature often


portrayed the harem as an exotic, sexualized
space, reinforcing stereotypes..

• Impact on Modern Views: These representations


skewed the historical understanding, reducing the
harem’s significance to mere fantasy.
Conclusion
The harem was not just a domestic space but a
politically active institution that impacted governance.
The public sphere’s male dominance was moderated by
these influential women.
Questions & answers
Invite questions from the audience

1.How did women in the harem affect political decisions despite being
confined to the private sphere?

2.What are some modern examples of private influence on public politics?

3.How do Orientalist representations of the harem still impact cultural


perceptions today?
Resources
List the resources you used for your research:
• Ruby Harem pdf
• https://www.britannica.com/place/Ottoman-Empire/Osman-and-Orhan
Thank You !
Name : Akshta Lodhi
Roll no. : 22/1341
Course : B.A. Economics honours

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