An online seminar aims to transport audiences back in time to the late Ottoman era in Constantinople (Istanbul) – Naz Vardar, a PhD candidate from the Department of History and Stavros Niarchos Centre for Hellenic Studies at Simon Fraser University, will present “Carnival Celebrations in Late Ottoman Istanbul”. This lecture is part of the Greek History and Culture Series, hosted by the Greek Community of Melbourne, and will take place on Thursday, June 22.

Vardar delves into her extensive research, to shed light on the significance of Carnival Celebrations, known as Apokries and Baklahorani, during the late Ottoman era. During the lecture, Vardar will reflect on the transgressive behaviours during Carnival Celebrations, including the subversion of gender roles and ethno-religious identities.By examining women’s participation, cross-dressing by Muslim men, and satirical plays that satirized specific occupational groups associated with particular communities, Vardar offers a fresh perspective on the complex social dynamics of the era.

Focusing on their prominence in Christian and European neighborhoods, this lecture offers a unique lens through which to explore the diverse social fabric of Istanbul.

Vardar provides valuable insights into the identities, concerns, and anxieties of ordinary people during this vibrant period and highlight the marginalised tradition of Carnival in Istanbul.

Where studies of public celebrations have primarily focused on imperial or national events, Vardar’s research will contribute to a broader understanding of the city’s social and cultural history.

About Naz Vardar

Naz Vardar, a renowned scholar in the field, is currently pursuing her PhD at Simon Fraser University, with a focus on the history of carnival festivities in the Ottoman Empire and Modern Greece. Her research delves into questions of identity, memory, and social history. With an impressive academic background, including an MA and BA in History from Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey, Vardar’s contributions to the field have been widely recognised. She is also engaged in an intriguing side project involving Turkish sound recordings of prisoners of war during World War I.

When: Thursday 22 June, 7pm

Where: livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube