Absolutism and Enlightenment

Departing from the 18th century concept of Absolutism as the most “modern” form of state and Enlightenment as the most important instrument of social development, this course explores major features concerning administrative, economic, social, legal and cultural developments of Norwegian society in the 18th century and discusses to what extent the development of the Danish-Norwegian state, especially of Norway, was determined or influenced by the ideology of Absolutism and the Enlightenment movement.

To understand how society developed, especially in Norway, in the 18th century, and the impact of Absolutism and Enlightenment on this development.

Lectures and seminars with contribution from the students with an essay or a seminar presentation.