The Ottoman Influence on Modern Greek Habits: A Close Examination

Introduction

A curious aspect of modern Greek culture is the possibility of Ottoman influence. Despite the significant interactions between the two, this influence seems to manifest mostly in negative habits, as highlighted by a 2011-2012 OECD report which identifies Greeks as the most prominent cigarette smokers among the 34 OECD countries, with Turks coming in fifth. This article delves into whether the Ottoman Empire's influence on modern Greek habits is as extensive as the report suggests.

The Nation/Empire Dilemma

It is important to distinguish between the Ottoman Empire and modern nations. The Ottoman Empire (1299-1922) was a vast and complex entity, not a nation but a collection of diverse peoples and cultures. The Greeks, along with other groups such as the Armenians, Kurds, and Turks, coexisted within its borders for centuries. This long-standing coexistence raises questions about the extent of direct influence from the Ottoman Empire on Greek habits.

For instance, modern Greece has been under Ottoman rule for approximately 400 years, with a significant period of interaction with the empire.

Cultural Mergence and Exchange

Considering the prolonged period of cohabitation between the Greeks and the Turks, it is plausible that many of the habits and traditions first attributed to the Ottomans could have naturally merged with Greek culture. This cultural melding is well-documented in other aspects of social life.

For example, there are noticeable examples of Ottoman-Turkish cultural exchange in cuisine. Greek dishes often incorporate flavors and ingredients that can be traced back to the Ottoman period, such as the use of aromatics and spices. This culinary exchange suggests that habits and preferences in food could have been shared and adapted over time.

A similar trend could be observed in the social habits of consuming coffee after meals. The introduction of this practice in Greece can be traced back to the influence of Ottoman culture. The Turks were known for their coffee-drinking customs, which they brought with them as they spread across different regions of the empire. Greeks, who witnessed these customs firsthand, may have adopted the practice through observation and imitation.

Other Possible Influences

While the evidence for negative habits like cigarette smoking being directly influenced by the Ottomans is compelling, it is equally important to consider other less obvious but significant influences. For instance, the Ottoman Empire's emphasis on urban planning and architecture had a lasting impact on Greek cities, particularly in regions that were directly under Ottoman control.

Moreover, the Ottoman system of governance, education, and social organization can provide insights into other aspects of modern Greek life that may have been influenced without direct attribution. For example, the importance placed on literacy and the spread of written knowledge during the Ottoman period could have contributed to later advancements in Greek education and cultural development.

Conclusion

The question of whether the Ottoman influence on modern Greek habits is profound or not is complex. While negative habits such as smoking seem to be more directly associated with the Ottoman cultural sphere, the extent of other influences, both positive and negative, may have been more subtle and pervasive. Future research could further explore these connections, leading to a more nuanced understanding of the historical and cultural dynamics at play.