Diriliş: Ertuğrul and Kuruluş: Osman are two hugely popular Turkish historical dramas that have become global phenomena, especially in recent years. Both series explore the richness of Turkish history and national traditions, but they focus on different stages of the rise of the Ottoman Empire. Here are the key similarities and differences between the two series:
Similarities:
- Plot:
- Both series revolve around the expansion and battles of Turkish tribes in the Middle Ages. Diriliş: Ertuğrul follows the conquests and struggles of Ertuğrul Bey, the father of Osman I, while Kuruluş: Osman shifts focus to his son, Osman I, who founded the Ottoman Empire. Although the story moves forward several generations in the second series, the central themes of survival, political intrigue, and territorial conquests remain consistent.
- Characters:
- Many key characters from Diriliş: Ertuğrul reappear in Kuruluş: Osman, such as Bamsi Beyrek, Turgut Alp, Dündar Bey, and, of course, Ertuğrul Bey. Their presence in both series creates a natural bridge between the past and future, maintaining continuity in the story.
- Production:
- Both series are produced by Tims Productions, which is reflected in the similar production style, quality of costumes, set design, and action sequences. The battle scenes, horseback combat, and large-scale battlefields play a key role in both series, providing a recognizable visual identity and excitement.
Differences:
- Plot and Focus:
- Diriliş: Ertuğrul focuses on the life and conquests of Ertuğrul Bey, the father of Osman I. The plot explores the formation of tribal alliances, battles against the Mongols and Byzantines, and the foundation of what would become the Ottoman Empire.
- Kuruluş: Osman, on the other hand, centers on the life of Osman Bey, who is the founder of the Ottoman Empire. The series focuses more on his efforts to establish and expand the first foundations of the Ottoman state, dealing with political intrigues, and fighting enemies like the Byzantines, Catalans, and other forces.
- Time Period:
- Diriliş: Ertuğrul is set in the 13th century, during a time when Turkish tribes were under constant threat from the Mongols, and Ertuğrul and his people were establishing their presence in Anatolia.
- Kuruluş: Osman takes place in the 14th century, after Ertuğrul’s death, and focuses on Osman Bey’s attempts to build his empire and expand his territory amidst already established sultans and tribes.
- Main Actors:
- In Diriliş: Ertuğrul, the role of Ertuğrul Bey is played by Engin Altan Düzyatan, known for his powerful and dramatic portrayal of the tribal leader.
- In Kuruluş: Osman, the role of Osman I is portrayed by Burak Özçivit, who brings a different, yet equally compelling energy that reflects Osman’s growing power and ambition.
- Politics and Characters:
- Diriliş: Ertuğrul focuses more on the creation of alliances among tribes, relationships with Seljuk rulers, and battles against the Mongols and Crusader armies. The show emphasizes the role of Ertuğrul’s allies and mentors.
- In Kuruluş: Osman, the focus shifts to political games and the establishment of authority, as Osman has to balance internal tribe issues, betrayal, and conflicts with neighboring powers. There is a greater emphasis on the political strategies that will lay the foundation for the future Ottoman Empire.
Common Elements:
- Historical Authenticity: Both series strive to remain true to historical events, though with some narrative liberties for dramatic purposes. While they are not documentary-style portrayals, the characters and events are based on real historical facts.
- Themes of Loyalty, Courage, and the Fight for Justice: Central themes in both series are the struggle for justice, loyalty to family, and always seeking the best interests of the people, which gives both shows universal appeal.
Conclusion:
Both series offer an exciting and dramatic look into the formation of one of the most influential empires in history, though each takes its own unique approach to the events and characters. Diriliş: Ertuğrul is more focused on the early struggles of the Turkish people in Anatolia, while Kuruluş: Osman portrays the rise of the Ottoman Empire under Osman’s leadership, laying the foundations for a great empire that would last for centuries.
