Slavery in Medieval Christian and Turkic-Islamic societies

This thesis examines the institution of slavery, which has existed throughout human history in various civilizations, religions, and cultural structures, from historical, sociological, legal, and religious perspectives. Beginning with the earliest examples of slavery, the study explores its practices in different civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, Asian societies, Ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire. The economic, social, and political impacts of slavery have been analyzed in a multidimensional manner. In addition, the attitudes of the Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) toward slavery have been comparatively evaluated, and the transformation of the understanding of slavery over time has been revealed through sacred texts and religious practices.The status, functions, rights, and violations suffered by slaves in Medieval Christian societies and under Roman law are examined in detail, with a particular emphasis on gender-based exploitation of women and child slaves. Slave trade, markets, and legal regulations, as well as slave revolts, are evaluated within their socio-political context. The structure of slavery in pre-Islamic and post-Islamic Turkic societies is addressed within the framework of the Gulam system and manumission practices.The aim of this study is to question the institution of slavery not only as a historical phenomenon but also in the context of concepts such as human rights, freedom, and justice, and to raise awareness of its effects on the modern world. With its multi-layered structure, the thesis offers a comprehensive body of literature on slavery and develops an interdisciplinary perspective.