Ödets teater : Ödesföreställningar i Sverige vid 1700-talets början

Sammanfattning: The purpose of this dissertation is to study the function of the conceptions of Fate in political contexts as well as in views on society, in early 18th century Sweden. The investigation is centered on three main concepts, namely Providence (lat. providentia), Fate (lat. fatum) and Fortune (lat. fortuna).Four specific questions are treated: Were these conceptions of Fate used as a ‘scapegoat’ or an ‘alibi’ for God, as has been suggested by recent research? How was the catastrophe of the Great Northern War (1700–1721) dealt with by aid of these conceptions? What capacity to shape their own destiny were people thought to have? Which interpretations regarding the conceptions of Fate were regarded as incorrect, and why?The dissertation shows how conceptions of fate were well established and filled a number of important functions in society, such as comfort, social discipline, and preservation of one's personal as well as national honor. Christian and classical traditions both played important parts in shaping these concepts. In particular, the philosophy of stoicism and the early Christian philosopher Boethius were central influences.