Literacy in the Service of Diplomacy: Transylvanian Emissaries,
Translators and Scribes at the Ottoman Porte
during the Reign of Michael Apafi I

Abstract:

The present paper brings forward the delicate mission of Transylvanian emissaries to the Ottoman Porte and their complex relationship with the Turkish administration. Each member of the legation had special training and certain skills that allowed them to act on behalf of the Transylvanian Prince (who, during his 30-year regin never had an official encounter with the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed IV), from mastering of the local conventions, languages (such as Hungarian, Latin, German, and Turkish) and diplomatic practice, as sometimes important and secret missions were entrusted to them. The author will regard pay attention to diplomatic career of some translators and scribes from Prince Apafi’s chancery, and their influence on the political issues of the region.

Keywords:

emissary, administration, diplomatic practice, Prince Apafi’s chancery