For centuries, the family has remained one of the most resilient yet deeply misunderstood institutions of the Ottoman Empire. In Family in Ottoman Society, master historian İlber Ortaylı dismantles popular myths and brings the domestic realities of the era to light, examining the very foundation of society from the 15th century to the modern day.

"The family is one of the most conservative, least changing institutions of a society, and now it is changing in this century," Ortaylı observes. "Because of this change, there is no subject that requires the research of historians as much as the institution of the 'family.' Without understanding its legal and social framework—such as the 'millet' system and the 'Romanization in law'—it is impossible to grasp the evolution of the family over the last 150 years."

Relying exclusively on first-hand historical sources, Ortaylı tackles highly debated subjects with precision and clarity. He explores the mutual responsibilities of spouses, family law, child-rearing practices, the state's distinct approaches to Muslim and non-Muslim households, inheritance, polygamy, patriarchy, and the inner workings of the harem. Family in Ottoman Society is not just a vital resource for academics and historians; it is the perfect read for anyone seeking accurate, comprehensive insights into the daily realities of life within the Ottoman Empire.