Both Louis XIV of France and Peter the Great of Russia exemplified absolutism, where monarchs held centralized and supreme authority. However, their approaches to governance and the contexts in which they ruled differed significantly.
Louis XIV, known as the "Sun King," epitomized the classical form of absolutism. He centralized power in the monarchy, famously stating, "L'état, c'est moi" ("I am the state"). His reign was characterized by the consolidation of power, suppression of nobility, and establishment of a strong, centralized government. He fostered a culture of royal grandeur and was known for the opulence of his court at Versailles, using it as a means to control and manipulate the nobility.
In contrast, Peter the Great's absolutism was marked by his efforts to modernize and westernize Russia. He implemented significant reforms to the military, government, and society, often inspired by Western European models. Peter expanded the territory of Russia and sought to transform it into a major European power, actively engaging in warfare and diplomacy to achieve these aims. His approach was more pragmatic and reform-oriented, focusing on modernization rather than the ceremonial and cultural aspects seen in Louis XIV’s reign.
In summary, while both monarchs practiced absolutism, Louis XIV emphasized the grandeur and centralization of royal power, while Peter the Great focused on modernization, military expansion, and systemic reform.