History Writing & Art in Legitimizing State Power

Subject : History

Question: Using the excerpt, respond to parts a, b, and c.

a. Identify ONE argument that the author makes in the first paragraph.

b. Identify ONE piece of evidence that the author uses to support an argument in the passage.

c. Explain how ONE development in the period 1200–1750 could be used to support the author’s argument in the second paragraph about history writing and art creation legitimizing states’ exercise of power

Experts Verified Solution

Part a: Identify ONE argument that the author makes in the first paragraph.

Answer:

In the first paragraph, the author argues that history writing and the creation of art have been instrumental in legitimizing the power of states. This argument suggests that through historical narratives and artistic expression, states were able to reinforce their authority and justify their rule to both their subjects and external observers.

Part b: Identify ONE piece of evidence that the author uses to support an argument in the passage.

Answer:

One piece of evidence the author uses to support this argument is the mention of rulers commissioning artworks and historical texts that depict them as wise, powerful, and divinely ordained leaders. This evidence illustrates how visual and literary representations were strategically used by states to create a perception of legitimacy and continuity in their governance.

Part c: Explain how ONE development in the period 1200–1750 could be used to support the author’s argument in the second paragraph about history writing and art creation legitimizing states’ exercise of power.

Answer:

One development in the period 1200–1750 that could support the author’s argument is the use of royal portraits and monumental architecture in European monarchies, such as those of Louis XIV of France. During this period, Louis XIV commissioned various artworks, including the construction of the Palace of Versailles and numerous portraits that depicted him as the “Sun King,” a ruler with absolute authority derived from divine right. These cultural productions were not merely for aesthetic purposes but served to reinforce his central authority, project his power, and legitimize his reign over France. This example aligns with the author’s argument that art and history writing were tools for legitimizing state power, demonstrating how cultural outputs helped consolidate monarchical authority during this period.

By connecting these specific historical examples to the broader argument presented by the author, we can see how cultural and historical narratives were actively used to reinforce the power and legitimacy of ruling authorities from 1200 to 1750.