Bossuet: Politics Drawn from the Very Words of Holy Scripture

A 1991 English rendition of the classic defence of divine-right absolute monarchy in the French language.

Jacques Bossuet (Author), Patrick Riley (Edited by)

9780521368070, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 15 March 1999

500 pages
21.6 x 14 x 2.8 cm, 0.63 kg

This 1991 book was the first ever English rendition of the classic statement of divine right absolutism, published in 1707. Jacques-Benigne Bossuet argues in the Politics that a general society of the entire human race, governed by Christian charity, has given way (after the Fall) to the necessity of politcs, law, and absolute hereditary monarchy. That monarchy - seen as natural, universal and divinely ordained (beginning with David and Solomon) is defended in the first half of the book. The last part, added soon before Bossuet's death, goes on to take up the rights of the Church, the distinction between absolutism and arbitrariness, and causes of just war. Patrick Riley has provided full supporting materials including a chronology, guide to further reading, and a lucid introduction placing Bossuet in his historical and intellectual context.

Preface
Introduction
Chronology
Critical bibliography
A note on the text
Biographical synopses
Politics drawn from the very words of Holy Scripture
First Book. Of the Principles of Human Society
Second Book. On Authority: That the Royal and Hereditary [Type] is the Most Proper for Government
Third Book. In Which One Begins to Explain the Nature and the Properties of Royal Authority
Fourth Book. On the Characteristics of Royalty (Continuation)
Fifth Book. Fourth and Final Characteristic of Royal Authority
Sixth Book. The Duties of Subjects Toward the Prince, Based on the Preceding Doctrine
Seventh Book. On the Particular Duties of Royalty
Eighth Book. The Particular Duties of Royalty, Continued: Of Justice
Ninth Book. The Supports of Royalty: Arms, Riches or Finances, and Councils
Tenth and Final Book. Continuation of Helps to Royalty: Riches or Finances, Counsel
The inconveniences and temptations which accompany royalty: and the remedies that one can bring to them.

Subject Areas: History of ideas [JFCX]