Strategies of Rulers Throughout History: A Comparative Analysis of Constantine the Great and James VI

Abstract

Throughout history, rulers have employed various strategies and methods to justify their authority, and ruling by divine right stands as one of the most fascinating strategies. This concept asserts that leaders derive their legitimacy and power from divine entities, often gods or supernatural beings. This essay discusses how rulers assert authority through ruling by divine right, examining two prominent case studies: Constantine the Great and James VI. It analyzes the extent to which the employment of ruling by divine right contributed to consolidating their control and the challenges they encountered. By exploring both case studies individually and comparing their outcomes, this paper gains insight into the complexities of using divine legitimacy as a basis for rule. As a result of this paper, ruling by divine right can most definitely be advantageous to rulers wanting to consolidate their rules, but only under the right circumstances, proper employment and ruler’s social skills.