De l’autorité du roi

The work De l'autorité du roi (1588) by Pierre de Belloy is a significant text in the development of the divine right of kings theory in France. Belloy argued that monarchs are chosen by God and are accountable only to Him, asserting that any rebellion against a king was a rebellion against the Almighty. This doctrine posited that a king's authority to rule is divinely granted and cannot be challenged by earthly powers, including his subjects. Belloy's work provided a strong theoretical foundation for reasserting royal authority, particularly in the context of the religious wars that had threatened the French state. This idea contributed to the consolidation of monarchical power by emphasizing the king's direct relationship with God, thereby discouraging dissent and rebellion.12