Question

How did the statement by Prussian ruler Frederick the Great that a ruler is only “the first servant of the state” highlight Enlightenment ideas about government?

Answer 1

The main way in which this quote highlights Enlightenment ideas about
government is that it calls into power the idea that no human--not even a sovereign king--is ultimately above the law of the land. 

Answer 2

Answer;

-The statement demonstrated Frederick's belief about the role of the king in a government. It showed that he believed the goal of the ruler was to serve and strengthen the country. The ruler was therefore a "servant" to the people by acting in the best interests of the country.

Explanation;

-Frederick was an absolute ruler, but he considered himself the first servant of his state. Prussia was underdeveloped in industry and trade. There was no navy, no raw materials and no regions suitable for mining.

-One of his aims was to improve the living conditions of the peasant farmers. He tried to implement reforms in 1748, but was opposed by the entire Prussian nobility. Frederick was more successful in lower Silesia, where he was able to change the work conditions of the peasants for the better.