Our first official day in Turkey. I spent the entire flight over wondering how my experiences during my previous trip to Turkey would impact this course. I must admit that the first time I went to Turkey I knew nothing about the country or the culture; however, now five years and numerous courses later that is a different story. Turkey is perhaps one of the most unique countries of the Middle East primarily due to its somewhat dual identity – East and West. Just as the country itself lies on two continents, the traditions that define the country's core are in constant disunity. As Turkey has opened itself up to the outside world this identity crisis has become even more pronounced. As we wandered through the Blue Mosque and the Aya Sofia, I'm reminded of the Ottoman roots that run so clearly through the country itself.
Many of the institutions have retained their sense of history, and how could you not, with the constant historical reminders scattered throughout the city. This sense of history was one of the reasons I was so drawn to the country. Turkey's ability to move forward and continue to redefine itself, often to the surprise and amazement of many Western countries, while maintaining the historical perspective that has allowed them to progress as far as they have today. These monuments attest to the rich sense of history that continues to pervade the country and its people.
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