Absolutism

Definition

Absolutism is a political doctrine and practice where a single ruler holds complete and centralized control over the government and is not bound by laws or constitution. This form of governance emphasizes the authority of the monarch, who claims divine right, allowing them to exert total power over their state, including the laws, economy, and culture, which is particularly evident in the French Baroque and Rococo periods as seen through the grandeur of Versailles and the flourishing of secular art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Absolutism reached its peak in France during the reign of Louis XIV, who famously declared, 'L'état, c'est moi' (I am the state).
2. The construction of the Palace of Versailles was not just an architectural feat but also a political strategy to control the nobility and showcase royal authority.
3. Under absolutism, the arts flourished as monarchs commissioned works that glorified their reigns and reinforced their divine right to rule.
4. Absolutism often led to a reduction in power for nobles and other political entities, centralizing governance in the hands of the monarch.
5. The rise of absolutism was marked by conflict with emerging constitutionalist ideas in England and other nations, leading to significant political changes in Europe.

Review Questions

• How did Louis XIV embody the principles of absolutism during his reign in France?
  • Louis XIV embodied absolutism through his centralized control over the French state and his belief in the divine right of kings. By declaring 'L'état, c'est moi,' he emphasized that his authority was not subject to any laws or external checks. His reign was characterized by the establishment of a strong bureaucracy loyal only to him, the construction of Versailles to assert his power visually, and the patronage of arts that celebrated his rule, all highlighting his absolute control over France.
• Discuss how Versailles served as a representation of absolutist principles and its impact on French society.
  • Versailles served as a physical manifestation of Louis XIV's absolutist principles by symbolizing royal authority and centralized power. The grandeur and scale of the palace were designed to impress both domestic and foreign audiences while also acting as a political tool. By inviting nobles to live at Versailles, Louis XIV effectively curtailed their power and distracted them with court life, which reinforced his dominance over them while promoting an image of a powerful monarchy.
• Evaluate the effects of absolutism on European art during the Baroque and Rococo periods, particularly concerning themes and patronage.
  • Absolutism had profound effects on European art during the Baroque and Rococo periods by promoting themes that glorified monarchs and their divine right to rule. Art became an essential tool for kings like Louis XIV to communicate their power, legitimacy, and grandeur. The lavish commissions from these rulers led to a focus on dramatic expressions in Baroque art and ornate styles in Rococo that celebrated secular themes. This shift not only reflected royal ideals but also influenced cultural tastes across Europe, paving the way for a more centralized vision in artistic expression aligned with absolute authority.

Related terms

Divine Right of Kings: A political and religious doctrine that asserts that a monarch's right to rule comes directly from God, legitimizing their absolute power.

Louis XIV: King of France from 1643 to 1715, known as the Sun King, he epitomized absolutism by consolidating power and establishing a centralized state with himself at the center.

Versailles: A grand palace built by Louis XIV, serving as a symbol of absolute monarchy, showcasing art, culture, and the king's power while physically embodying the centralization of authority.