Tourism Essay On Turkey Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Tourism On Turkey - Essay Example Elements of Traditional Turkish Culture and Arab Culture observed in Turkey The constitution of Turkey has given everybody the right to choose their religious beliefs. However, despite of that the traditional Turkish culture and Arab culture exert a great influence over the life of people here. As in other Arab cultures, Islam holds significant place in the lives of Turks since most of them are Muslims. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) shape the basis of all religious and daily practices of the Turks. As per traditional Arab culture, family relationships hold the utmost position in the people’s lives. The father is positioned as the supreme head of the family though today, the mother enjoys equal rights. However, in most small towns and villages, till today the father is supposed to play the role of the boss and protector of the family whereas mothers are responsible for looking after the daily chores of the household. Children are expected to give respect to elders and support when they are old; and it is the duty of the elders to provide financial and emotional support to children when they are young. Every family member is supposed to help each other in the hour of need in every possible way. The segregation of sexes can still be seen in small towns and villages. ... The outlook behind the hospitality is â€Å"whatever religion you are from, whichever country you come from, whatever language you speak, you are God’s guest and so you deserve to be welcomed in the best manner†. This courteous and kind hearted attitude of the Turks is visible for every tourist visiting their country or any person visiting their home. Another culture that still holds an important place in the lives of Turks is the practice of Turkish baths or, Hamam. The emphasis of Islam upon cleanliness has made this custom a part of every event in the life of a Turk whether childbirth, marriage or death. Moreover, the famous coffee houses called Kahve, are very explicit to Turkish people even today (as cited in â€Å"People and mentality†, n.d). Extent of Influence of Westernization and Modernization on Traditional Turkish and Arab Culture Western and modern culture has been adopted by the Turkish people in a huge way. In 1923, Turkey was declared a republic a fter the fall of the Ottoman Empire during World War II. The main aim of the new government under the leadership of Ataturk was to turn Turkey into a contemporary, western and secular nation. The state religion of Islam was disestablished and all religions were given the freedom to practice their beliefs; the Western system of legal code was adopted. Soon, the classical music of Turkey became influenced by the western culture for example, the development of rock music insurrected the local form. Moreover, the European style of architecture replaced the Ottoman style in institutional buildings. The Turkish literature became westernized with the introduction of the novel and the short story. Most importantly, the western culture of lifestyle, clothing and attitude was