Muhazarat (محاضرات) by Fatma Aliye Reviewed by Seda Karamanli In 2009, the Turkish 50 Lira note became the centre of a heated debate, symbolising the ongoing tension between Turkey’s secular and conservative camps. The catalyst for this dispute was the decision to feature Fatma Aliye (Topuz) (1882-1936) on the note’s reverse side. So, who was Fatma Aliye then, and what was the basis for such… Continue reading Highlights from the Aga Khan Library Collections – Ottoman Collections (V)

Muhayyelât-ı Aziz Efendi (مخيلات عزيزافندى) by Ali Aziz Efendi Introduced by Seda Karamanli Hidden within the notable Ottoman collection of the Aga Khan Library lies a gem of literature: Muhayyelât-i Aziz Efendi (Aziz Efendi’s Imaginations). Ali Aziz Efendi, born in 1749, was the son of Tahmisci Mehmet Efendi, the treasurer of Ottoman Crete. He rose to prominence after… Continue reading Highlights from the Aga Khan Library Collections – Ottoman Collections (IV)