The Nature of Absolute Government in France

Characteristics of Absolutism

Centralized Power: Absolute government in France most notably meant that power was centralized in the monarch. Kings Louis XV and Louis XVI presided over all aspects of administration, making all final decisions.
Divine Right: Absolutism was underpinned by the belief in the Divine Right of Kings, which emphasised that monarchs were chosen by God and thus had unquestionable power, legitimizing their absolute rule over the kingdom.
Control over Nobility: The monarch also controlled the French nobility, curtailing their power to challenge the monarchy. Louis XIV was noted for this in the prior century, Louis XV and XVI continued this tradition to some degree.
Undermining of Estates-General: The older representative institution, the Estates-General, which included nobility and clergy, was not frequently convened, reducing its political influence and reinforcing absolutism.

Bureaucratic Structures of Absolute Government

Intendants: The system of intendants—royal officials appointed by the monarch—provided a backbone to absolutist rule. They enforced royal policies in the French provinces, collecting taxes and maintaining law and order.
Parlements: Although they could occasionally pose challenges to the king, the Parlements (courts of law) were another important part of absolutist governmental machinery. They registered royal laws, giving them legal validity.

Royal Patronage and Court Culture

Versailles: Symbolizing the glory of French absolutism and the Sun King’s power, the Palace of Versailles was not just a magnificent residence but the centre of political power. Louis XV and XVI both ruled from here.
Court Life: The court was an integral part of the absolutist system. It institutionalised the control of the nobility, filled with rituals and ceremonies, and decisions of state were made within its circles.

Absolutism and Financial Control

Control over Finances: The king was the final arbitrator over national taxation and expenditure. The continuous financial crisis and the failure to implement reforms would ultimately lead to a downfall of the system.
Venality of Offices: Many administrative positions in government were sold to the highest bidder, a system known as venality of offices, which also allowed the offices to be inherited. This arrangement filled the royal coffers but led to inefficiency and corruption and undermined public trust.

Absolutism and Religion

Gallicanism: The king controlled the French Catholic Church under the principle of Gallicanism, effectively making the Catholic Church an arm of the state, solidifying his absolute rule.
Revocation of the Edict of Nantes: Although this occurred under Louis XIV, its effects were felt into the 18th century, demonstrating the king’s absolute control over religious practice in France.