Divine Right Flashcards
What is the Divine Right of Kings?
The belief that monarchs derive their authority directly from God, and therefore their power is absolute and cannot be challenged by any earthly authority.
How did James I justify his authority using the Divine Right of Kings?
James I argued that kings are God’s representatives on Earth, accountable only to God, and that resisting a king’s authority was equivalent to resisting God’s will.
Which book did James I write to explain his views on kingship?
The True Law of Free Monarchies (1598), where James outlined the principles of the Divine Right of Kings and argued for the absolute authority of monarchs.
What was the response of Parliament to James I’s belief in Divine Right?
Parliament often clashed with James over his belief in absolute authority, as they saw it as a threat to their own power and the principle of governing through the rule of law.
Why did James I believe that kings were above the law?
James I believed that since kings were appointed by God, they were above human laws and could not be held accountable by their subjects, only by God.
How did James I’s belief in Divine Right affect his relationship with Parliament?
James I’s belief in Divine Right led to tension with Parliament, especially regarding financial matters, as he often sought to bypass parliamentary approval for taxes and expenses.
What phrase did James I use to describe kings’ connection to God?
James I famously described kings as “little gods on Earth,” emphasizing their divine authority and unique position of power.
What was the significance of the Basilikon Doron written by James I?
In Basilikon Doron (1599), James gave advice on kingship to his son, reinforcing his views on the Divine Right of Kings and emphasizing the king’s responsibility to rule justly under God’s guidance.
How did James I’s belief in Divine Right influence his foreign policy?
James I sought to avoid unnecessary wars and promoted diplomacy, believing that his position as a divinely appointed king allowed him to mediate between nations and maintain peace.
How did James I’s belief in Divine Right affect his financial policies?
James I believed he should have the right to raise funds without parliamentary approval, leading to conflicts over taxation and financial management.
How did James I’s view of Divine Right contribute to political unrest?
His authoritarian attitude alienated Parliament and contributed to long-term tensions that would later erupt during the reign of his son, Charles I, culminating in the English Civil War.
Did James I ever face significant opposition to his views on Divine Right during his reign?
While James faced opposition from Parliament, his reign saw no major rebellion; however, his son Charles I would later face extreme opposition, partly due to continuing the doctrine of Divine Right.
How did James I’s religious policies reflect his belief in the Divine Right of Kings?
James believed that as king, he was also the head of the Church of England, reinforcing his control over religious matters and often suppressing dissenting religious groups.
Why was James I’s Divine Right theory problematic in a constitutional monarchy?
James’s belief in absolute power conflicted with England’s tradition of shared governance between the monarch and Parliament, creating friction and limiting cooperation.
What was James I’s stance on the role of Parliament?
James I saw Parliament as secondary to the monarchy, believing that their role was to advise and consent, but not to challenge the king’s ultimate authority.
