Studies in the History of Istanbul Jewry, 1453-1923: A Journey Through Civilizations

8vo. ril. ed. XIV+518 p., 55 b/w ill. + 8 colour ill., 12 b/w tables, 15 b/w line art. Hardback A cross-cultural and cross-temporal journey in the city of Istanbul and its Jewish community from the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople (1453) to the establishment of the Turkish Republic (1923). This book presents ten chapters in the history of the Jewish community of Istanbul from the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople (1453) to the establishment of the Turkish Republic (1923). While delving into specific subjects such as the Romaniot presence in the city, the Karaite society, family life throughout the generations, material culture and its meaning, social life, urban history, economic life, and relations with the Ottoman regime, a common thread binds all of them. Each of the chapters, individually and together, constitutes a journey between different cultures and religions. The history of Istanbuls Jews carries the imprint of Greek Orthodoxy and Catholicism, as well as Islam. It moves in cycles between the Byzantine and Ottoman realms, between Catholic Europe and the Muslim Ottoman Empire, and finally, between the Ottoman Jewish culture and a modern Europe in the throes of secularization. Over fifty images are included to illustrate the multicultural aspect of the history presented here. The essays in this volume present high quality scholarship, but equally they provide a fascinating insight to general readers with an interest in Constantinople-Istanbul-Qosta, as well as readers interested in Jewish urban history, the transmission of culture, and multiculturalism