Louis XIV and Divine Right: personality and aims; the restoration of order; the centralisation of royal authority; the role of Versailles
Louis XIV believed God gave him the right to rule France alone. He used this belief, his own forceful personality, and the palace of Versailles to concentrate all political power in his own hands.
Real World
Versailles functioned like a gilded cage: nobles such as the Prince of Condé — formerly a rebel general during the Fronde — were drawn to court life, making them politically dependent on Louis and unable to build independent power bases in the provinces.
Exam Focus
Avoid describing Versailles only as a cultural symbol; examiners reward analysis of how it neutralised noble opposition and centralised patronage.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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