Download Divine Right and the Absolute Monarch

Divine Right and the
Absolute Monarch
Absolute Monarchs
OR
Hold all power within a nation’s boundaries
Divine Right
1. Theory that supports concept of Absolute Rule
2. Theory states that God created the Monarchy;
therefore, the Monarch was chosen by God to
lead his people
3. As a result, Monarchs are required to answer
only to God, not their people
4. Citizens do not question the decisions made by
the Monarch because this would be like
questioning the decisions of their God
How Do Monarchs Become
Absolute?


Decline of Feudalism leads to the
growth of cities; increasing the need
for strong leadership
The authority of the Church, then, is
replaced by the authority of a
centralized government
Changes in the Era of Absolutism

Absolute Monarchs work to increase their power AND
the power of their nation

Absolute Rulers create large armies to:
1. Defend the nation
2. Expand the nation’s borders

Absolute Rulers regulate church services
to ensure the support of Priests and their
Parishioners

Absolute Rulers carefully establish relationships
with the nobility to secure their power and
authority
Absolutism at Work?
According to the Mandate of Heaven, the right to rule in Ancient
China was granted by the gods. The Chinese believed that since
there was only one Heaven, there could only be one ruler. Chinese
Emperors that were part of the Han Dynasty referred to
themselves as “Sons of Heaven,” and commanded respect from all
of their subjects. Chinese law dictated that the Emperor’s position
could not be challenged by anyone. Emperors handpicked
governors and officials in order to both centralize their authority
and spread their power. Each Emperor served as Head of State
and Commander of the Army. They chose whether or not to listen
to their advisors, and had no legislative body to monitor their
power or prevent abuse.
Would you classify the rule in Ancient China as an Absolute
Monarchy? Why or why not?
How does this portrait exemplify
the characteristics of Absolutism?
Review the concept of
Absolutism and the examples of
Absolute Rule we discussed in
class. Now, do you have any
additional questions? If so,
write them down and schedule
a time to meet and discuss
them.