Essay On The Failure Of Absolutism

Absolutism was at its peak in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. Louis XIV of France is frequently used as the model of an absolute monarch. Many other European monarchs during this period adopted the doctrine of the Divine Right of Kings, believing that God had invested in them all the power and authority in the state. Rulers who identify as Gods can not do others good. Even though absolutism can help benefit nations in dire situations, absolutism was simply an excuse for tyranny because of the overwhelming power given to an individual, and its failure of producing a large and thriving middle class.

Full authority granted by God himself at a time where religion prospered will lead a person down a path of greed. “Kings are justly called gods, for that they exercise a… divine power upon earth.” (James 1) Each monarch believed that they are above mortal men. Louis XIV referred to himself as the “Sun King”, because
Absolutism failed to create a solid, thriving middle class. With all the power and money in the hands of the monarch, after death there was no wealthy traders and business man to help keep the nations financial rate up. “This lack or private initiative and enterprise was to remain one of Russia’s greatest social weakness.” (Gibson) This caused nations to suffer tremendously, and was a major problem. During the rule of Louis XIV, the significance of the money gap was made more prominent. Louis XIV built himself a 2 billion, 17 acres palace, consisting of 350 bed rooms and 1400 fountains, while the citizens of France struggle financially. From a anonymous letter from the Kings tutor, it states that the impoverished citizens of France were poor due to the monstrous luxurious of the court. The overwhelming amount of power given to a absolute ruler will not benefit the state but only the ruler, both financially and