The Establishment of Absolutism at Home, 1661-1685

Question 1

What was the principle of absolutism/the Divine Right of Kings?

Answer 1

That the monarch’s power was bestowed directly by God, and that the monarch was thus only answerable to Him. The assertion of this authority was the monarch’s right, and essential in order to avoid disorder.

This also meant that the monarch could impose laws even on those who objected to them - he had supreme power over the parlements and customary and fundamental law.

Question 2

What are the limitations of divine absolutism?

Answer 2

Succession law only allowed a legitimate male heir to succeed as King.
The monarch was still subject to God’s judgement, and had no power over natural laws such as the laws of succession.
The monarch must only perform moral and just deeds, presumably in alignment with God’s omnibenevolence.

Absolutism was not a form of arbitrary power, and the King was still subject to custom and institutions.

Question 3

What were Louis’ aims at his accession to the throne?

Answer 3

1. To eradicate all sources of disorder, and place himself at the centre of a harmonious universe.
2. Personally control and centralise government and extend his authority over his ministers.
3. Restore financial order.
4. Eliminate heresy.

He also wanted to:
1. Recognise the rights and status of his Christian subjects.
2. Choose his battles.
3. Encourage compliance from the elites.

Question 4

What is some early evidence of Louis’ desire for gloire?

Answer 4

He commissioned over 300 portraits of his likeness and 500 tapestries.
He appeared in 9 ballets as Apollo before 1659.