What was the role of women in the Ottoman Empire?

What was the role of women in the Ottoman Empire?

In the Ottoman Empire, the role of women varied depending on their social status and the time period. Generally, women were expected to fulfill traditional gender roles, such as being wives, mothers, and homemakers. They were responsible for managing the household, raising children, and maintaining the family's reputation. However, elite women, particularly those from the ruling class, had more opportunities for education and involvement in politics. Some women even held positions of power and influence, such as the mothers and wives of sultans who often played significant roles in the empire's administration. Despite these exceptions, women in the Ottoman Empire generally had limited rights and were subject to patriarchal norms and restrictions.