Final answer:
The relationship between a monarch and subjects can be described through social contract theory, where subjects surrender rights in exchange for protection, and the monarch rules in the subjects' best interest. Frederick the Great represented an enlightened despot, suggesting a more benevolent use of absolute power.
Step-by-step explanation:
To understand the nature of the relationship between a monarch and his or her subjects, especially in the context of Frederick's era, we can look at the social contract theory. This theory posits that the people surrender their rights to the monarch in exchange for protection and governance. For example, in 18th-century Europe, some absolute monarchs like Frederick the Great of Prussia took on the role of an enlightened despot. Although maintaining absolute rule, they differentiated themselves by acting on the premise that they were chosen to rule in the best interest of their subjects, as per social contract theory.
The obligations of the monarch in this relationship were to protect the interests of the people, provide governance, and make decisions that were in their subjects' best interests. Conversely, the subjects were expected to surrender their rights and allow the monarch to govern. This dynamic can be compared to John Locke's vision, where he argued that the people have the right to judge whether a prince acts contrary to their trust, suggesting that the social contract grants the monarch power, but also holds them accountable to the people.