Konungsstjórnar

Konungsstjórnar refers to a form of government where a king holds supreme authority. This system, prevalent throughout much of history, places the head of state and government in the hands of a single monarch, typically inheriting their position through hereditary succession. The extent of a konungsstjórnar can vary significantly, ranging from absolute monarchies where the king's power is unchecked, to constitutional monarchies where the monarch's role is largely ceremonial and subject to a constitution and elected bodies.

In absolute konungsstjórnar, the king's word is law, and they often hold legislative, executive, and judicial powers. Historically, this model was common in many ancient and medieval societies, providing a centralized and often stable form of rule, though it could also lead to tyranny. The legitimacy of the monarch's rule in such systems was frequently derived from divine right or tradition.

Constitutional konungsstjórnar, on the other hand, limits the monarch's power. While the king or queen may remain the head of state, real political power typically resides with an elected parliament and a prime minister. In these systems, the monarch often serves as a symbol of national unity and continuity, performing symbolic duties and acting as a non-partisan figurehead. The transition from absolute to constitutional konungsstjórnar often marked significant political and social changes within a nation.