Charles I and views on Monarchy

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  • Created by: lou9119
  • Created on: 25-02-18 14:09

Character & Aims

Born in 1600. 1612 his older bro Henry died unexpectedly. He spent much of his childhood away from the royal court;underprepared for his role as King. Character was shaped by these early experiences: 

  • Poor public speaker and suffered from a stammer. 
  • Disapproved of his father's extravagance at court and favoure an orderly approach to gov. 
  • Inherited a firm belief in the Divine Right of Kings from his father. 
  • Angered easiley, though it became less evident by the time he was king in 1625. 

His aims: 

  • Restore a sense of order and decorum at the royal court. 
  • Order in the church. 
  • Sound financial base in response to his father's debts. 
  • Secure the monarchy's authority. 
  • Maintain a firm control over the 3 kingdoms, meaning to balance their religions and cultures. 
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Views of Monarchy and Favourites

CI belief in DR was reinforced when he commissioned a Dutch Artist (Rubens) to paint the celiling of the banqueting hall at Whitehall. Painting depcits James I ascending to heaven while commanding Charles to the throne. Representing the Stuart King's belief in authortiy.  

He believed that political power should lie with him and only shared with select advisers. This belief was evident in these reforms: 

  • Ceremonies surrounding visits to the king modelled on those in France. 
  • Made himself difficult to access. 
  • Sense of ritual brought to court, Charles served food on a bended knee. 
  • Appointed Arminian chaplains who believed in the DR. 
  • Fondness for ceremony and hierarchy was reflected in the Arminian-style worship he held in high regard. 

Charles caused controversy by deferring to his favourties in order to make important decisions. His tendency to place complete trust in his close advisors made P suspicious. He'd be later compelled to choose advisers who were acceptable to his legislature.

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