What truly made the Ottoman Empire such a monumental force in world history? How did Topkapı Palace manage to be simultaneously modest and magnificent? In an era where historical understanding is increasingly shaped by sensationalized films, dramatic television series, and adventure novels, separating fact from fiction has never been more crucial.

"One of the most important reasons for writing Discovering the Ottomans was that readers were mistaking the information they gleaned from trendy films and series for reality," explains master historian İlber Ortaylı. "This evolution of the performing arts created a reverse mythologization. Corrections had to be made." In this illuminating work, Ortaylı invites readers to genuinely rediscover the "Devlet-i Aliyye" (The Sublime State) in all its unique glory. He answers fundamental questions about daily life: What did sultans and pashas actually do? Why was the family such a critical institution? What made the Enderun palace school—the training ground for future administrative and military elites—so unique?

He also delves into the minds of the empire's greatest figures, analyzing the strategies of Mehmed the Conqueror and the enduring genius of the legendary architect Mimar Sinan. Translated into over ten languages, including German, French, Arabic, and Greek, Discovering the Ottomans is the ideal introductory guide for anyone eager to step into history but unsure of where to begin.