Lady Mary Wortley Montagu's "Turkish Embassy Letters" offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Ottoman Empire through the eyes of a curious and observant Englishwoman. Montagu's vivid descriptions of Turkish society, customs, and traditions paint a vivid picture of life in the 18th century Ottoman Empire.

The selection of letters chosen for this edition provides a well-rounded view of Montagu's experiences and interactions during her time in Turkey, showcasing her wit, intelligence, and sharp observations. From her descriptions of Turkish baths and clothing to her discussions of gender roles and political matters, Montagu's letters offer a unique perspective on a culture that was largely unfamiliar to her European audience.

What makes Montagu's letters so engaging is her ability to blend personal anecdotes with larger cultural insights, making for a compelling and informative read. Her admiration for Turkish society is evident throughout the letters, yet she does not shy away from critiquing certain aspects that she finds troubling or perplexing.

Overall, "Turkish Embassy Letters" is a captivating collection that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of 18th-century history and provides readers with a fresh perspective on the cultural exchanges that took place between Europe and the Ottoman Empire. Montagu's sharp wit and keen observations make this a must-read for anyone interested in travel writing, cultural studies, or women's history.

Book Description:
Lady Mary Wortley Montagu was an English aristocrat and woman of letters. In 1716, she accompanied her husband to Vienna, and thence to Adrianople and Constantinople, where he took up his post as the new British ambassador. The couple remained there until 1718. Lady Mary told the story of their voyage in a series of private letters full of vivid descriptions and unconventional commentary. Their posthumous publication in 1763 presented to the public the first secular work written by a European woman about the Muslim Orient. They were praised by Voltaire, and the Scottish author Tobias Smollett opined that they were "never equaled by any letter-writer of any sex, age or nation".

This selection contains sixteen of Lady Mary's Turkish Embassy Letters, as they came to be known, addressed her sister, Lady Mar , to Lady Rich , and to Abate Conti .