Kingship
These three Kings
Although, kings may seem to live a luxurious, carefree, lifestyle they actually play a vital role in leading and directing people of their domain. King means: One that is supreme or preeminent in a particular group, category, or sphere. Because it is a natural tendency for men to live in groups, it is necessary for a leader to arise out of these groups of men. Kings of medieval time had to have certain characteristics in order to lead their people. According to medieval writers kings had to posses or demonstrate common good towards the people, the divine presence of god must be bestowed upon them, compassion, and they must have the ability to distinguish right from wrong. These virtues are the chief characteristics needed because they provided the ruler and the ruled a direction in their life. Medieval writers knew that these virtues would enable kings to effectively rule their people with a purpose.
The overall well being of a king's kingdom is a goal that many kings have accomplished. It is a goal and is solidified in a good king's moral values. Thomas Aquinas backs this notion up by saying "Man or any other animal would disintegrate unless there was a general ruling force within the body which watches over the common good of all members." A king's kingdom would essentially fall apart if he wasn't looking out for his people. The king must protect, serve, and give the people a sense of security. His reasons for providing the common good should be for a righteous and befitting end. Another aspect of providing for the common good would be keeping peace between the people and their neighbors. During Otto's coronation he is told by the archbishop to "These points falling to the ground will remind you with what zeal of faith you should burn, and how you ought to endure in preserving peace to the end" The issue of providing for the people a feeling of easy going...
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