u/Over-Loss7169

I remember reading that Leslie Pearce wrote something about this, but I can't find the exact quotes and sources

There is no doubt that he loved Hürrem with all his soul and heart and was completely obsessed with her. Of course, she herself did a great many things to earn respect - she was educated, engaged in charity work, and, of course, raised Suleiman’s favorite son, Mehmed.

I’m certain that all of this is what made Suleiman appreciate and respect her more and more. But also, is there any historical evidence, rumors (just no misogynistic tales about Hürrem having bewitched him), or unconfirmed but plausible theories as to why Suleiman increasingly wanted to set her apart, rather than follow tradition?

Creating the title of Haseki just for her, to elevate her above Mahidevran (and at that time, only she and the Valide were higher in status than Mahidevran), and later, an official and very luxurious marriage to her. What was the reason for this, if he could have simply chosen not to do it?

I often notice in Suleiman’s biography his penchant for favoritism: his favorite friend, his favorite wife, his favorite son.

It was as if he were not able to keep subordinates around him; instead, he wanted to single out his favorites in every way possible amidst all the “unworthy” ones.

Was it precisely this habit of favoritism - and not something else - that led to the title and the marriage?

He loves all kinds of games; he plays modern ones with his friends, but when he’s alone, he likes to play the games from his childhood, such as the Mario universe. What can I come up with, given that he’s in another country (the U.S.) and I have a very, very tight budget?