Empress of the East: How a Slave Girl Became Queen of the Ottoman Empire

Très formel et presque barbant récit de la vie incroyable et intéressante d’une femme extrêmement charismatique. Je ne renonce que rarement mais je n’ai pas terminé ce livre, c’est dire. Il y a d’autres ouvrages bien meilleurs avec les détails et coutumes de la vie dans le harem.

This is a fascinating story of a young girl who wrote her destiny with her wit and intelligence. This must be read by all the girls and those who are interested in the fascinating history of Turkey.

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Empress of the East is not just an account of Hürrem Sultan but also of the Ottoman Empire. An essential read.

I saw Alexandra/Roxelana/Hurrem’s tomb in Istanbul, saw the ballet, heard conflicting views about her (a scheming/crafty slave who weakened am empire, a object of sleazy speculation, a giant of history). I viewed Magnificent Century on Utube (a travesty of history). This book treats this woman with respect as a historical figure and gives her a humanity.