Speaker
Description
This study explores the transmission, reception, and reinterpretation of medieval Islamic cosmographies in the Ottoman world, with a focus on their portrayal of wonders (‘ajā’ib) and strange phenomena (gharā’ib). Rooted in Arabic and Persian traditions, these works offered a vision of the cosmos that blended scientific, religious, and imaginative elements, persisting in Ottoman intellectual circles despite increasing exposure to Western geographical knowledge. The paper examines early Turkish translations and compilations and traces the evolving attitudes toward wondrous and supernatural phenomena. Particular attention is given to Kātib Çelebi, whose critical engagement with cosmographies reflects a broader tendency toward skepticism and rationalization, yet without fully abandoning an enchanted worldview. By analyzing the balance between curiosity, faith, and critical inquiry in Ottoman cosmographical writings, this study contributes to discussions on the interplay between belief and reason, as well as the complexities of pre-modern “disenchantment.”
Short Biography
Dr. Feray Coşkun is an assistant professor at Özyeğin University where she teaches world history, history of travel and Ottoman history. She obtained her B.Sc. from Middle East Technical University, Department of History in 2003, M.A. in History from Boğaziçi University in 2008, and Ph.D. from Berlin Graduate School Muslim Cultures and Societies, Freie Universität Berlin in 2015. In the scope of the ERC Project GHOST (Geographies and Histories of Ottoman Supernatural Tradition) directed by Dr. Marinos Sariyannis, she examines the Ottoman cosmographies of ‘Ajā’ib style.
| Keywords | Wonders, Ottoman cosmography, disenchantment, ajaib al-makhluqat, Katip Çelebi |
|---|---|
| feray.coskun@ozyegin.edu.tr | |
| Affiliation | Özyeğin University |
