10 Questions
What is the main idea of enlightened absolutism?
The main idea of enlightened absolutism is that an absolutist monarch uses their powers of government to establish enlightened policies.
How did monarchs co-opt the ideas of the Enlightenment?
Monarchs were able to co-opt the ideas of the Enlightenment by stating that although they had absolute authority, they were using it to protect their citizens.
What is the difference between absolutism and enlightened absolutism?
Absolutism is the belief that the monarch has absolute control over the state, while enlightened absolutism is a subtype where the monarchs claim to rule in the best interests of their subjects.
What was the religious situation in the country before Joseph II's reign?
Catholicism was the only allowed religion.
What were some of the educational reforms implemented by Joseph II?
He increased access to education and acquired the best instructors for the University of Vienna.
What was Joseph II's goal in removing some privileges of the ruling class?
To reduce their status and make it lower than that of the commoners.
How did Joseph II hope to gain support for his new policies?
By writing convincing essays justifying his changes.
What is enlightened absolutism and what were some common aspects of the reigns of enlightened absolutists?
Enlightened absolutism refers to the rule of monarchs who claimed to govern according to enlightened principles, such as reason, progress, and the well-being of their subjects. Common aspects of their reigns include supporting the arts, expanding access to education, exercising absolute power, and granting freedom of speech.
Who were some of the enlightened despots mentioned in the text and what were their contributions?
Some of the enlightened despots mentioned in the text include Catherine II of Russia (Catherine the Great), Frederick II of Prussia (Frederick the Great), and Joseph II of the Holy Roman Empire. Catherine the Great made strides in cultural development, supported scientific research, modernized infrastructure, and created an educational institution for women. Frederick the Great made limited reforms, allowing for free expression of ideas and opening up public offices to non-nobles. Joseph II introduced policies of religious tolerance to unify his empire.
Was Louis XV considered an enlightened despot and why or why not?
Louis XV is considered to have some enlightened characteristics, such as encouraging culture and philosophical debate. However, he did not implement any enlightened policies. This may have been influenced by the example of his predecessor, Louis XIV, who strongly opposed Enlightenment ideas.
Test your knowledge on enlightened absolutism and discover how absolutist monarchs used their powers to implement enlightened policies. Explore the connection between absolutism and enlightenment in this intriguing quiz.
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