Matrimony

The Medieval and Renaissance Center of NYU presents: Leslie Peirce (Department of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, New York University), Much ado about matrimony: Women's desires, family controls, and state scrutiny in the early modern Ottoman empire
March 8, 6:00 p.m.
19 (13) University Place, Room 222

How was it that, in an allegedly well-run polity, contracting and living a valid marriage could be such a problem? Broken engagements, unlivable marriages, and unintended bigamy were not infrequent occurrences, and even the line between single and married could sometimes seemed blurred. Was it merely an interest in social stability that prompted Ottoman authorities in the 16th century to tighten legal and social controls on matrimony, or was more at stake? In an attempt to answer this question, the lecture explores the nexus of womenís desires, family interests, and state intervention.

For further information on Professor Peirceís work, see: www.nyu.edu/gsas/dept/mideast/people/faculty/peirce.html

All MARC events are free and open to the public. For more information, please contact:

The Medieval and Renaissance Center
(212) 998-8698
mar.center@nyu.edu
www.nyu.edu/fas/center/marc