Monarchia: structure and content

The Monarchia is a treatise in Latin in 3 books, essential for reconstructing Dante’s political thought and closely linked to the fourth treatise of the Convivio as well as to several fundamental themes in the Commedia. Although it is known to have been written post-exile, its precise date is disputed. Nardi suggests between 1307 and 1308, while other scholars, on the basis of information provided by Boccaccio, argue that the correct date is 1312-13, which coincides with the arrival in Italy of Henry VII. A note in Book I with the words sicut in Paradiso Comedie iam dixi has led others to date the treatise to 1316-17, thus relating it to the election of Pope John XXII and the return of discussions on papal and imperial authority. In this last group is Ricci, who produced a critical edition.

Each book rigorously discusses a fundamental theme. Book I argues the need for Empire, the only institution capable of guaranteeing peace and justice, since the emperor, owning all, is beyond avariciousness. Book II demonstrates the legitimacy of the Roman Empire, deriving not from the use of force, but from divine will, as testified by the birth and death of Christ during the Roman Empire. Book III, in a highly original manner, focuses on a problem discussed throughout the political treatises of the time, namely that of the papal versus imperial primacy. Dante maintains that since imperial and papal authorities both derive directly from God, neither can be subordinate to the other. As part of a more general design, starting with the separation of the human body and soul, their respective goals are earthly and eternal happiness, to be pursued independently and autonomously. The emperor must only respect the pope as a son respects his father.