Absolutism in Europe: The Sun King
What are the benefits and drawbacks of having an absolute ruler?
Imagine that you live under the most powerful monarch in 17th-century Europe, Louis XIV of France (shown below). As Louis' subject, you feel proud and well protected because the French army is the strongest in Europe. But Louis’ desire to gain lands for France and battle his enemies has resulted in costly wars. Louis expects you and his other subjects to pay for them. Is it worth it?
As you answer these questions in the Blog, also consider the questions at the bottom of the page. Be sure to defend your answers with concrete historical reasons, and then, as you read about the other absolute monarchs in Europe, notice what strengthened and weakened their power.
What can people gain from having a ruler whose power is total, or absolute?
What factors can weaken the power of an absolute monarch?