The Mediaeval Theory of the Tyrant
Wilfrid Parsons
In that famous passage in his De Civitate Dei which has been called the first “Mirror of Princes,” St. Augustine outlines qualities good king. The is toolong to quote here, but certain listed are pertinent this discussion. He tells us kings happy If they rule justly; … if make their power handmaid His majesty by using it for greatest possible extension worship; more than own love kingdom not afraid have partners; slow punish, quick pardon; apply punishment as necessary government and defense republic, gratify enmity; prefer govern depraved desires rather any nation whatsoever; do all these things, through ardent desire empty glory, eternal felicity, neglecting offer true God, who sins sacrifices humility, contrition, prayer.
The Review of Politics