Contextualization

Absolutism represented a form of government that prevailed in Europe between the 16th and 18th centuries, characterized by a concentration of powers in the hands of monarchs, where they held political, economic, social, and religious power, free from any kind of restriction, be it legal, economic, or political. It is a theme that goes beyond the historical context, as it provides a solid foundation for understanding important political and social transformations that have left their mark on contemporaneity.

The advent of Absolutism was inserted in a post-fall context of the European feudal system, marked by profound political transformations. By studying Absolutism, students will be able to understand the roots of the modern political system. Therefore, understanding the concepts and events of Absolutism is essential to comprehend the evolution of politics and society.

Introduction

In this project, we will delve into the study of Absolutism, highlighting the peculiarities of European absolutist monarchies. For this, students will be guided to conduct research and analysis, as well as to develop a playful and engaging practical activity, which will serve as a tool to strengthen learning and stimulate collaboration and teamwork skills.

The objective of this project is to promote meaningful learning about the Absolutism theme, developing students' ability to understand and analyze the historical, political, economic, and social aspects involved. Additionally, it encourages the development of critical thinking and socio-emotional skills, such as time management, communication, problem-solving, creative thinking, and proactivity.

Practical Activity: Recreating the Absolutist Court

Project Objective

The objective of this activity is for students to become familiar with the daily life, politics, intrigues, and notable characters in the court of an absolutist monarch. Students must create and stage a historical drama based on their research about a specific monarch and their court.

Detailed Project Description

In this activity, students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 members. Each group will have to choose a specific absolutist court (for example, the court of Louis XIV or the court of Peter the Great) to research and recreate as a play or role-play simulation. This activity requires extensive historical research, as well as teamwork and presentation skills.

Necessary Materials

1. PC, tablet, or smartphone with internet access for research
2. Video editing software (optional)
3. Period clothing and accessories (can be made from recycled materials or paper)
4. Space for rehearsals and presentation
5. Camera for recording the presentation (optional)

Detailed Step-by-Step

Step 1: Divide students into groups of 3 to 5 people.

Step 2: Each group must choose a specific absolutist court for research.

Step 3: Students should conduct comprehensive research on life in the chosen court, including the monarch's life, notable characters, court customs, reign policies, etc. Sources for research can include history books, documentaries, academic articles, and reliable web sources.

Step 4: Each group must create a script for a play or role-play simulation depicting life in the chosen absolutist court.

Step 5: Students must rehearse their play or simulation, with each group member assuming a court character.

Step 6: Each group must present their play or simulation to the class. If possible, students should record their presentations for future analysis.

Step 7: After the presentation, each group should write a report detailing the research and preparation process, as well as the main findings and understandings that emerged during the project.

Project Delivery

The project should result in two main deliverables:

1. The performance, which can be presented live or as a pre-recorded video. This presentation should demonstrate students' understanding of the characteristics of an absolutist court, highlighting the political, social, and cultural aspects of the time.

2. A written report containing the following items:

   • Introduction: Explain the choice of the researched court and the relevance of the theme in the study of absolutism.
   • Development: In this section, students should detail the research conducted, highlighting the sources consulted and the main learnings about the chosen court. Additionally, describe the script creation process and preparation for the performance.
   • Conclusions: Here, students should reflect on what they learned from the project. Include the main insights gained during research and performance production, as well as any connection to current reality.
   • Bibliography: The sources consulted during the project should be properly cited following the appropriate format.

This activity will allow students to deepen their knowledge about life and politics during the absolutism era, while developing their research, teamwork, and communication skills.