Divine Right and the Absolute Monarch Absolute Monarchs

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? v v 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 v Absolute Monarchs work to increase their power AND the power of their nation v Absolute Rulers create large armies to: 1. Defend the nation 2. Expand the nation’s borders v Absolute Rulers regulate church services to ensure the support of Priests and their Parishioners v 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.