Images of Women in Turkish Historical Novels

Abstract

Since the beginning of mankind, woman who has been an inseparable part of humanity has continued its presence on the stage of history since ancient times. The first ideas about women were reflected in religious texts. Women are mentioned in religious books such as “Quran”, especially in the verses 38th-39th of Surah Insan and verse 35th of Surah Al-Baqara.
The theme of women is reflected in both oral and written literature. Very little has been written about women's life, political state, education, social, and cultural status in Turkish novels. Especially in historical novels, which are the most interesting and controversial types of the novel genre, since the main characters are men, women are usually invisible in their shadow. However, despite this, in historical novels, it is possible to encounter female characters who are not inferior to their Turkish husbands with their heroism, bravery, loyalty, and fighting spirit.
The research object of the article is the female characters in the historical novel "Osmancık" by T.Buğraa and "Konak" by M.N.Sepetçioğlu which tells about the history of the Ottoman Empire. Here, the place and role of women in the Turkish society in the historical period are investigated.