I have too much time and decided to write an analysis of Sarper from a Turkish perspective in case it’s of interest 😂
First of all, I’m from Istanbul. Sarper’s family seem middle to upper middle class to me. His career choices (stripper, fitness instructor etc.) would not be considered a success by his family so he probably feels that he has somewhat failed in life.
On the other hand, most women that he interacts with in his daily life (colleagues?) are probably of a poorer background. He would not consider them to be “good enough” for him and his family. Similarly, he would not be considered “good enough” for women who come from a similar socioeconomic background to himself due to his career.
That really only leaves him the option of marrying a foreigner and trying to build a life abroad. Shekinah is his way of saving face.
My wife is turkish. He doesn’t seem anywhere near middle class - particularly since he was a stripper, whore, trainer, etc. in fact, I am surprised the family still talks to him given his life choices. I am not sure what part of Istanbul he lives in from the snippets on the show.
I don’t see why he is settling for Shekinah but at the same time she can do WAY better. I personally see their relationship as over by the time her tourist visa ends