To what extent were two rulers successful in achieving their aims?

Candidates will consider the extent to which two rulers succeeded in achieving their aims. While the focus of the response must be within the timeframe of this topic, the two rulers need not be contemporaries and may or may not be chosen from different regions. In each case, candidates must clearly state the aims of each chosen ruler and these may be assessed in relation to factors such as domestic policies, foreign policies and/or dynastic ambitions. The achievement, or not, of the aims outlined may provide a basis to determine how far the rulers were successful. Each ruler may be considered separately or a thematic approach may be used if candidates wish to compare the aims and success of each ruler.