Introduction to ERTUGRUL GAZI DRAMA

Ertuğrul Gazi lived in the early of the 13th century, was the leader of the Kayı branch of the Oghuz Turkomen and the father of Osman, the founder of Ottoman Turkish State. Due to the times in which he lived and the circumstances, the details of Ertuğrul’s life are largely inconcrete, and he is mostly depicted as a courageous and enterprising Osmanli warrior whose leadership and military prowess were of pivotal importance in establishing the empire.

According to some sources, Ertuğrul along with his tribe migrated from Central Asia to Anatolia because of the assaults of Mongol. When he came to Anatolia, he became an emir of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum and was allowed to found a town in the region of Sögüt. The new position on the border of the Seljuk and Byzantine territories provided Ertuğrul with many opportunities to attack and perse the Byzantines, thus, adding to his military glory.

It is worth making special emphasis on Ertuğrul’s values and attitudes based on justice, fairness and Islamic principles that he has taught his followers, and his son Osman. He was a strong leader motivating people and focusing on community, loyalty, and having a call to do something noble.

Ertuğrul's life and exploits have been romanticized in various historical accounts and popular culture, most notably in the Turkish historical drama series "Diriliş: Ertuğrul,” relates the real life problems, fight and victory of Ertuğrul in a fictional way. However, it is impossible to discuss the historical credibility of such portrayals; however, popular movies could undoubtedly contribute to the renewed interest in Ertuğrul Gazi’s life and the role of the Ottoman Empire.

Edu: Ertuğrul Gazi died around 1280 but the continuation of his life is seen in his son Osman and the empire that would become one of the most dominating empire in history.