The Restoration of the Monarchy
The restoration of the English monarchy in 1660 marked a significant turning point in British history. Carlo II d'Inghilterra, son of Charles I, returned from exile in France to reclaim the throne. His time in France had made him an admirer of Louis XIV, influencing his approach to governance and court life.
Upon his return, Charles II established a court that embraced pleasure and the arts. Theatres and taverns reopened, signaling a shift from the austere Puritan era of the Commonwealth. This change reflected a renewed interest in the material world and enjoyment of life.
Highlight: In 1662, Charles II patronized the Royal Society, an institution dedicated to scientific inquiry based on the principle of "on the word of no one." This marked a direct challenge to traditional philosophical dependence on authority.
The Royal Society included notable members such as:
- Robert Boyle, a physicist and chemist
- John Evelyn, a diarist
- Sir Christopher Wren, a renowned architect
In domestic policy, landowners resumed their leadership of society, and a new Parliament, known as the Cavalier Parliament, was elected in 1664.
Definition: The Cavalier Parliament was the name given to the English Parliament called by Charles II in 1661. It was overwhelmingly Royalist and Anglican.
Two major disasters struck London during Charles II's reign:
- The Great Plague of 1665, a devastating bubonic plague outbreak
- The Great Fire of London in 1666, which raged for five days
Example: Following the Great Fire, Charles II commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to rebuild the old City. Wren presented a plan for a new city with wide streets, grand squares, and buildings in the neoclassical style, including the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral.
Charles II's reign was also marked by financial challenges. He often turned to France for financial support when his relationship with Parliament became difficult. This led to the secret Treaty of Dover in 1670, which included an agreement to restore Catholicism in Britain in exchange for French support.
Vocabulary: The Treaty of Dover was a secret agreement between Charles II of England and Louis XIV of France, signed in 1670. It committed England to assist France in its war against the Dutch Republic.
Carlo II morte occurred in 1685, and he was succeeded by his brother James II, who had converted to Catholicism.
