Absolutism

Definition

Absolutism is a political doctrine and practice where a single ruler holds absolute power over the government and its subjects, often justified by the divine right of kings. This form of governance was prominent during the Baroque era, influencing various aspects of culture, art, and music as rulers sought to demonstrate their authority and control. The period saw monarchs use the arts as a means to legitimize their reigns and project their power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Absolutism flourished in Europe during the 17th century as monarchs consolidated power, often in response to political instability and religious conflicts.
2. Under absolutism, rulers had control over laws, taxation, military, and foreign policy without any legal or legislative constraints.
3. Cultural patronage was significant under absolutist regimes; rulers commissioned grand palaces, operas, and music to reflect their power and magnificence.
4. The period saw a blending of political authority and artistic expression, as composers like Johann Sebastian Bach created works that aligned with the grandeur expected by absolutist rulers.
5. The decline of absolutism began in the late 17th century with rising challenges from Enlightenment thinkers who promoted ideas of individual rights and limited government.

Review Questions

• How did absolutism influence the cultural landscape of the Baroque era?
  • Absolutism significantly shaped the cultural landscape of the Baroque era as monarchs used art and music as tools to display their power and control. Rulers like Louis XIV engaged artists and composers to create works that not only glorified their reigns but also reinforced their divine right to rule. The grandeur of Baroque art mirrored the ambitions of these absolute monarchs, leading to a flourishing of artistic expression that emphasized drama and emotional depth.
• In what ways did the doctrine of divine right support absolutist rule during this period?
  • The doctrine of divine right provided a theological justification for absolutist rule by claiming that monarchs were chosen by God to govern. This belief made it difficult for subjects to challenge their authority since doing so would be perceived as defying divine will. As a result, kings wielded unchecked power over their states, influencing laws, taxes, and even religion, while fostering an environment where loyalty to the crown was equated with loyalty to God.
• Evaluate the impact of absolutism on music composition during the Baroque era and how it reflects broader societal changes.
  • Absolutism had a profound impact on music composition during the Baroque era, as many composers were directly supported by absolute rulers who sought to enhance their prestige through cultural patronage. This led to an increase in grand compositions that often included elaborate orchestration and emotional expressiveness. Composers like Bach and Handel created works that not only entertained but also served ceremonial functions in royal courts. The shift towards emphasizing individual artistry within a framework established by monarchical patronage mirrors broader societal changes where personal expression began to emerge even under rigid political structures.

Related terms

Divine Right: A political doctrine that asserts a monarch's legitimacy is conferred directly by God, justifying absolute rule.

Louis XIV:

The French king known as the 'Sun King,' whose reign epitomized absolutism, characterized by centralization of power and extensive patronage of the arts.

Baroque Art: An artistic style prevalent in the 17th and early 18th centuries marked by dramatic expression, grandeur, and an emphasis on emotion, often commissioned by absolute monarchs.