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The Dark Side of Kinship: Intra-Familial Murders in the Late Ottoman Society
Abstract
Since the Tanzimat era, the Ottoman state embarked on a journey of increased involvement in the private realm of its subjects, particularly within the family structure, aiming to solidify its social authority through interventions in education, child welfare, and marriage regulations. Drawing from extensive archival research, this paper delves into the domestic sphere of Ottoman provinces, focusing on marriage patterns, marital economics, and familial conflicts. By analyzing court cases and testimonies, this study illuminates domestic disputes in rural communities, revealing how family members articulated their demands, grievances, and experiences, while also shedding light on the state's ideals concerning the significance of family. The paper first explores the patterns of family establishment, uncovering intra-familial relations through documented instances of murder. Through these cases, it endeavors to unravel the narratives surrounding family dynamics, highlighting emphasized relationships and conflicts. The analysis offers insights into how individuals recounted their family histories, addressing conflicts and silences within these narratives. Moreover, this study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding family dynamics in Ottoman provinces, primarily focusing on intra-family conflicts. It conducts data analysis on various aspects such as motives behind murders, perpetrators, victims, and methods employed. By synthesizing archival data and court records, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities of family life in Ottoman society during the second half of the 19th century, offering valuable insights into the interplay between state intervention, familial dynamics, and societal norms.
Discipline
History
Geographic Area
Ottoman Empire
Sub Area
None