What term describes a woman who is part of a Turkish harem?

The term "Odalisque" specifically refers to a woman in a Turkish harem, traditionally serving as a chambermaid and often seen as a concubine or a secondary wife of the sultan. The historical context of the harem includes a variety of roles for women, but "Odalisque" has been widely recognized in art and literature to denote a woman of this particular status and function within Ottoman society.

The choice of "Odalisque" is significant, as it reflects a specific cultural and historical connotation linked to the Ottoman Empire's harem system, where these women were often idealized and depicted in various works of art, symbolizing beauty and exoticism.

Other terms, while related to women in various contexts, do not encapsulate the unique cultural significance associated with harem women. "Maiden" is a more general term referring to an unmarried young woman and does not convey the complex social structure of a harem. "Concubine" can refer to a woman in a recognized but often unofficial relationship with a man of higher status; however, it lacks the specific association with Turkish culture represented by "Odalisque." Lastly, "Empress" denotes a woman who rules or holds the highest prowess within