This paper focuses on the manner in which the catastrophes of the early twentieth century found their way into the writings of three literate females born into the late Ottoman world. After having established themselves, respectively, as a teacher, a school counselor, and an author of children’s books, Mediha Kayra, Belkıs Halim Vassaf, and Cahit Uçuk wrote memoirs in which they tried to make sense of their experiences. While we cannot verify most of their statements, we can place their claims into a context derived from historical research, which allows us to say whether a given story is believable in the light of present-day information. Admittedly, what passes for historical knowledge among present-day generations also has very serious limitations.

Veruschka Wagner will be the moderator of the talk. This month’s talk will be online. Please click on the link below to register.

Image: Cover image of Women in the Ottoman Empire: A Social and Political History