Compare and contrast the impact of the policies of any two Enlightened despots.

Candidates are required to give an account of the similarities and differences of the impact of the policies of any two Enlightened Despots referring to both despots throughout. Suitable rulers could include: Frederick II of Prussia, Peter I or Catherine II of Russia and Maria Theresa or Joseph II, both of whom were rulers of the Holy Roman Empire. It is not a requirement that they be from different countries. Many of these Enlightened despots pursued policies to strengthen their state. These could include administrative reform, religious toleration and economic development as well as military reforms. Other areas of comparison and contrast could include their relationship with the nobility and their attitude to serfdom. It could be argued that the actual impact was often limited as far as the lives of ordinary people were concerned as enlightened despots were not prepared to countenance any reforms that would challenge their rule.