Ingilizce Englisch English


This study is an attempt to understand better the development of Ottoman administrative structure and political culture by focusing on Celalzade Mustafa Celebis 1490-1567 life, career and works. Celalzade Mustafa witnessed formation of Ottoman classical organization and culture during 16th century and he is accepted as one of the most influential author-bureaucrats during that time. His nickname koca nisanci which means old and great at the same time, indicates his venerated status among divan-i humayun scribes. He served for Ottoman chancery for more than 50 years; first as a scribe and private secretary of the grand vezir, then for 9 years as reisül-küttab and for 23 years as nisanci. Celalzade Mustafa contributed to the formation of Ottoman classical culture with his bureaucratic activities and works written on different subjects such as history, ethics, Ottoman law, religious studies and poetry.