The Reasons Behind The Rise Of Absolutism In Europe: Free Essay Example, 514 words
close
test_template

The Reasons Behind The Rise of Absolutism in Europe

Human-Written
download print

About this sample

About this sample

close
Human-Written

Words: 514 |

Page: 1|

3 min read

Updated: 27 January, 2025

book icon Read Summary
Essay grade:
Good
arrow downward Read Review

Words: 514|Page: 1|3 min read

Updated: 27 January, 2025

The Reasons Behind The Rise Of Absolutism In Europe
book icon Read Summary
Summary
close

The essay explores the concept of Absolutism, a prevailing political system in 17th and 18th-century Europe, with a particular focus on the era associated with Louis XIV and its culmination in the French Revolution. During this period, kings held absolute power, often derived from the belief that their authority came directly from God, a concept known as the "Divine Right of Kings." This absolute power placed kings above the clergy and nobility, with any opposition seen as defying God.

Several factors contributed to the rise of Absolutism, including the decline of feudalism, religious conflicts such as the Thirty Years War, the growth of the middle class, and the impact of taxation systems resulting from adverse climate changes. The religious wars, particularly the Thirty Years War, played a crucial role in weakening the power of the Catholic Church and religious groups, creating an opening for the emergence of absolutist rule.

The essay also highlights the economic aspect of Absolutism, considering it as an early form of capitalism known as Mercantilism. This economic system supported the centralization of the economy, with taxation from merchants contributing to the wealth of absolute monarchs. The consolidation of power included control over military forces and the judiciary, with the construction of symbolic structures like the Palace of Versailles.

Essay grade:
Good
arrow downward Read Review

Absolutism is a term used for the prevailing political system among European states in which took part through 17th and 18th centuries in Europe. The Absolutism period generally considered to originate with the hegemony of Louis XIV and to end with the French Revolution. At these periods, it was believed that the power of the kings was derived from the strength of God. Thus, the kings who ruled in absolute monarchy period had steady power which was superior to the power of the clergy and nobility. Any restriction against kingdoms was assumed as perversity against God. The limitless power of the Kings is called “Divine Right of Kings” which was absolutism’s basis. Louis XIV who is called as Sun King was the most popular absolutist king of France who conducted the most powerful regime in Europe with unlimited, divine power. 

There are several reasons behind the rise of absolutism namely, decline of feudalism, religious wars, especially Thirty Years War, growth of middle class and the taxation system resulted from the climate change that affected Europeans’ life and economy too negatively by causing to suffering and deprivation. However, the religious wars, namely Thirty Years War can be considered as the most basic reason for the rise of absolute monarchy. There were series of wars causing to the death of lots of innocent people resulted from the protestant reformation. Because of these religious wars 60% of the population in some parts of Europe were lost. Signed at the end of the Thirty Years War, Peace of Westphalia had changed balance of power among Europe and steadily reduced the power of Catholic Church and other religious groups. As a consequence of decrease of church’s influence, there was open space for a new power and this prepared an appropriate ground for the absolutism. 

The period of absolutism is also considered as early Capitalism by many historians. Free trade firstly emerged at this period. The name of new economic system was Mercantilism and this new system was helping to absolutist rulers to be able to centralize economy. Additionally, the taxation which was collected from the merchants helped to provide the financial wealth that absolute monarchs were seeking for. The basic power of a state such as military, entitlement of judgment was gathered in the hand of absolutist monarchs. There were vast courts of the officials and permanent seats of the government. By rising of courts, political power of courtiers who are royal councils increased. For absolute monarchs, Palace of Versailles was built as a symbol of their power. At his period there was court painters such as Diego Velazquez who was drawing the powerful rulers. This was also a way that absolute monarchs show and maintain their unlimited power. 

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

In conclusion, from what mentioned above, it might be inferred that there was a unquestionable power and authority of the absolute monarch. There was almost no division between the state and the king. Moreover, rulers had a power like a God. There were various reasons causing these consequences and the most important reason was the religious wars that declined the authority of church.

Image of Dr. Oliver Johnson
This essay was graded by
Dr. Oliver Johnson
Essay’s grade:
Good
What’s grading
minus plus
Expert Review
The essay provides a comprehensive overview of absolutism in Europe, effectively highlighting key factors contributing to its rise. It skillfully connects the decline of feudalism, religious wars, and the Thirty Years War as significant drivers behind this political shift. The analysis of how these events led to the diminishing power of the church and paved the way for absolute monarchy is insightful. Furthermore, the discussion on early capitalism and mercantilism adds depth to understanding how economic changes supported absolutist regimes. However, while the content is informative, the essay could benefit from a more structured argument and clearer transitions between ideas to enhance readability. Some areas lack sufficient detail or examples that would strengthen arguments further. Overall, it successfully captures essential elements of absolutism but falls short in coherence and detailed analysis, justifying a rating of 3.9 out of 5. With improvements in organization and depth, this essay has potential for a higher score.
minus plus
What can be improved
The essay presents a solid foundation on the topic of absolutism, but several areas could be improved to enhance its overall effectiveness. Firstly, a clearer thesis statement at the beginning would provide a stronger framework for the argument. Each paragraph should explicitly link back to this thesis to ensure that the narrative remains focused and cohesive. Transitions between ideas are often abrupt; employing transitional phrases would help guide the reader more smoothly through the various points discussed. For instance, when moving from the discussion of religious wars to economic factors, it would be beneficial to draw a direct connection between these two themes. Additionally, while the essay references significant events such as the Thirty Years War and Peace of Westphalia, providing specific examples or anecdotes could deepen readers' understanding and engagement with these historical moments. Further exploration of how mercantilism specifically influenced absolutist policies would strengthen this section. Lastly, incorporating counterarguments or differing perspectives on absolutism could add complexity to the analysis. Overall, with improved structure, clearer transitions, and richer detail in certain areas, this essay has great potential for a higher evaluation.

Cite this Essay

The Reasons Behind The Rise Of Absolutism In Europe. (2021, Jun 09). GradesFixer. Retrieved February 17, 2025, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/the-reasons-behind-the-rise-of-absolutism-in-europe/
“The Reasons Behind The Rise Of Absolutism In Europe.” GradesFixer, 09 Jun. 2021, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/the-reasons-behind-the-rise-of-absolutism-in-europe/
The Reasons Behind The Rise Of Absolutism In Europe. [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/the-reasons-behind-the-rise-of-absolutism-in-europe/> [Accessed 17 Feb. 2025].
The Reasons Behind The Rise Of Absolutism In Europe [Internet]. GradesFixer. 2021 Jun 09 [cited 2025 Feb 17]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/the-reasons-behind-the-rise-of-absolutism-in-europe/
copy
Keep in mind: This sample was shared by another student.
  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours
Write my essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    clock-banner-side

    Get Your
    Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now