Is Dirilis Ertugrul Based on True Historical Events?

The Turkish historical drama series, Dirilis Ertugrul, follows the life of Ertugrul Bey, the father of Osman I who founded the Ottoman Empire. While Ertugrul is a historically verified figure, the series takes creative liberties with many of the depicted events, characters, and relationships. The show aims to capture the spirit and themes of the era but should not be considered a strict historical account.

Historical Context and the Show's Approach

The series Dirilis Ertugrul primarily presents a blend of truth and fiction. While the historical events and some key figures are accurate, the dramatization introduces fictional elements to engage contemporary audiences. Director and creator Mehmet Bozdag has been explicit about the show's approach, stating that he and his team poured a lot of research and thought into the series. They ensured that cultural and social aspects, such as the tribal setup, names, practices, and the geopolitical landscape, were accurate.

Accuracy in Key Events

Several key events in the series are based on real historical occurrences:

The fall of the Seljuk state, which is portrayed accurately. The establishment of Ertugrul's domain in Sogut. The migration from east Anatolia, a documented historical event. The rise of the Ottoman state.

Despite these authentic elements, there are sections of the series that are more fictionalized. Director Bozdag acknowledges that there is a significant level of dramatization, especially in minor details and character developments. This makes the series a narrative constructed for storytelling and entertainment, rather than a documentary.

Characters and Their Origins

The characters in the series are a mix of historical figures and fictional creations. Major figures such as Ertugrul Bey are true to history, while some supporting characters are invented to shape the narrative and drive the plot forward. It is crucial to separate the factual from the fictional when watching the series.

For instance, the relationship between Ertugrul and his mother, Gülbahar, although emotionally intense, is not supported by historical evidence. Similarly, the interactions and demeanor of some characters, like Mult?o, are exaggerated for dramatic effect. However, their cultural and social contexts are grounded in reality.

Conclusion and General Agreement

While the series captures the era's spirit and cultural essence accurately, it is crucial to recognize its dramatized nature. A mix of truth and fiction makes the series compelling but not strictly documentary. Viewers should approach the series with an understanding that, while it is based on historical facts, many scenes and interactions are fictional.

Ultimately, the general consensus among historians and fans is that the series is a work of fiction with significant grounding in historical accuracy. It serves as an entertaining and culturally enriching source rather than a definitive historical document.

References

Mehmet Bozdag interviews and statements related to the series. Historical research on the Ottoman Empire and the Seljuk state.