Hurrem’s story makes me think about how women’s power often works in ways that are not immediately visible. In many parts of Turkish society, particularly in rural areas, women are still expected to embrace traditional roles—raising children, managing the household and caring for the family. On the surface, these responsibilities may seem limiting. However, within the family structure, women frequently hold substantial influence. They shape decisions, manage relationships between relatives and guide the values of the next generation. Their authority may not always come with a formal title, but it is real and impactful. Hurrem’s legacy challenges the narrow definition of power as something public and official, typically associated with men like Suleiman. Her life shows that influence can begin in private spaces and gradually expand outward. She became part of what historians call the “Sultanate of Women”, a period when royal women played a significant role in imperial politics. Securing the throne for her son was not just a personal success, it also demonstrated how women could influence the future of an empire. In many ways, Hurrem’s story reflects the complexity of women’s roles in Turkey today. Even when traditional expectations remain strong, women continue to exercise agency within their families and communities. Their power may not always be public or formally acknowledged, but it shapes both private life and broader society. Looking at Hurrem’s life reminds us that power does not always announce itself loudly, sometimes it works steadily, strategically and from within.
