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Neta Talmud | Jack, Joseph & Morton Mandel School for Advanced Studies in the Humanities

Neta Talmud

Department of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies

Subject:  Social History of the Cholera Epidemic in the Ottoman Empire

Supervisors: Dr. Eyal Ginio and Prof. Liat Kozma

Abstract:  Cholera was one of the deadly epidemics of the modern era. It spread in several waves of pandemic during the 19th century in different parts of the world. The cholera is unique and infamous for its quick expansion over wide areas, leaving behind high numbers of victims. Cholera had deep social aspects. It usually attacked poor areas, thriving in the conditions these areas provided. It examined existing social and administrative structures while exposing problems and tensions under the surface. It started rumors, caused the desertion of towns and villages, inspired art works and affected the lives of millions.
In my research I will tell the social history of the Ottoman Empire from two perspective. The first is the imperial perspective, focusing on the Ottoman policy toward Cholera in times of changing perceptions of modernity and of the state. I will examine relations between the Ottoman central authorities with the provincial administration as well as with western imperial forces. The second perspective will present daily life under the shadow of cholera in specific Ottoman cities, focusing on the influence of the epidemic over the population, local initiative to deal with the disease and power struggle between different groups.

Bio: I received my bachelor degree from the PPE (Philosophy, Political Science and Economy) program in the Hebrew University. I am currently finishing my Master degree in the Department of Islam and Middle East Studies. My interest is social and cultural history in the Ottoman Empire. My MA thesis "The Maghareba- a Community in Ottoman Jerusalem" examines communal life in the neighborhood of the maghareba (North African) in 17th century Jerusalem.

Rotenstreich Scholarship 2021/22

President Scholarship 2019/20