The establishment of Absolutism at home, 1661–1685 Study Guide

Study Guide: Louis XIV and Absolutism

Key Themes

• Divine Right of Kings: Understand Louis XIV's belief in his divine right to rule and how this shaped his policies.
• Centralization of Power: Explore how Louis XIV reduced the power of the nobility and increased the authority of the monarchy through the use of intendants.
• Versailles: Analyze the significance of the Palace of Versailles as a political and cultural center.
• Cultural Patronage: Examine Louis XIV's support for the arts and sciences, including the roles of the Académie Française and the Academy of Sciences.
• Economic Reforms: Review Colbert's mercantilist policies and their impact on French trade and finance.
• Religious Policies: Discuss the implications of the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes and Louis XIV's approach to religious dissent.

Study Tips

• Create timelines to visualize key events and reforms during Louis XIV's reign.
• Compare and contrast Louis XIV's policies with those of previous monarchs to understand the evolution of absolutism in France.
• Engage with primary sources, such as letters and edicts, to gain insight into Louis XIV's thoughts and motivations.
• Form study groups to discuss and debate the effectiveness of Louis XIV's policies and their long-term impact on France.