There
are several possible ways to approach an analysis of Evliya ‡elebis seventeenth-century
chronicle of exploration, the ten-volume Seyahatname. The thesis would
depend on which particular aspect of this massive work the writer wants to emphasize, such as
culture, linguistics, or religion. This travelogue has been considered influential both in terms
of the geographic region that the author, originally known as DerviÅŸ Mehmed Zill®, explored
and for the perspectives he presents on the inhabitants of the places he visited. It is
appreciated as a literary work in part because the authors observations are acknowledged as more
creative than factual.
Evliya, who was an elite, well-educated man, traveled
not only through the Ottoman Empire but also in Western Europe. As a Muslim, Evliya also
presented a perspective that drew on his faith and training. An effective thesis might propose
that his observations were strongly influenced by his religious beliefs and training, including
his interpretation of the Koran.
Because Evliya was raised in what is now
Turkey and the first volume concentrates on Istanbul, an essay could focus on the Ottoman
portion of the work. One might argue that his upbringing and deep familiarity with this city
make this segment more valuableand perhaps more accuratethan other parts. Robert Dankoff has
referred to the author as having an Ottoman mentality.
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