The Origins of French Absolutism, 1598-1661

This controversial study takes the provocative line that the French monarchy was a complete success. James turns the idea of royal ‘absolutism’ on its head by redefining the French monarchy’s success from 1598 - 1661.

The Origins of French Absolutism, 1598-1661 maintains that building blocks were not being laid by the so-called architects of absolutism, but that by satisfying long-established, traditional ambitions, cardinal ministers Richelieu and Mazarin undoubtedly made the confident, ambitious reign of the late century possible.

This book turns the idea of royal ‘absolutism’ on its head by redefining, and not trying to deny, the French monarchy’s success from 1598 - 1661.

By examining the three fundamental aims of the French monarchy, this book argues that these years were indeed successful ones for the monarchy. It maintains that building blocks were not being laid by the so-called architects of absolutism; but that by satisfying long-established, traditional ambitions, cardinal ministers Richelieu and Mazarin undoubtedly made the confident, ambitious reign of the late century possible.

For students studying 17th century French history or early modern European history.