WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The reign of Louis XIV is often referred to as “Le Grand Siècle” (the Great Century), forever associated with the image of an absolute monarch and a strong, centralised state. Coming to the throne at a tender age, tutored by Cardinal Mazarin, the Sun King embodied the principles of absolutism.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Epitome of Absolutism. Louis XIV was determined to reign supreme. He made that very clear when he began his active reign, calling himself the ‘Sun King, ‘ who shined his light on France and insisting that he himself was the state personified.

Detailed explanation-3: -Ruling France for over 72 years, the Sun King would consolidate absolute royal power as no one had done before him, or would do after him. Beyond building a palace, he made France the cultural center of Europe, influencing other foreign royal courts with his fashion sense and etiquette.

Detailed explanation-4: -King Louis XIV is generally the face of absolutism in France with his famous quote “I am the state” and his flair for personal aggrandizement. He also held a tight grip on the country and was highly successful in organizing a functioning state.

Detailed explanation-5: -France in the Seventeenth Century was dominated by its kings; Henry IV, Louis XIII and Louis XIV. Each weakened the power of the magnates and expanded royal absolutism at the expense of the nobility.