Authors: Duhamel & Mény
Summary: In about 400 words monarchy is defined, in an etymological sense, as that political regime whose power is exerted by a unique person. It is stated 'for divine law' if the royal power is considered derived from God's will, it is an 'absolute monarchy' if its powers are completely boundless, while it is a limited one when a representative assembly control the king's acting and influences his autonomy.
Nowadays in countries like Spain, the monarchy is embedded in the parliamentary regime and rests on the Consitution which defines its tasks and powers.
It is conceptually opposed to republic since no king's election are required, neither by people nor by majorities. Moreover no regency duration is established.