Kell-e császár a Szent Római Birodalomnak? Vita a német alkotmányról 1787–1788-ból
Does the Holy Roman Empire Need an Emperor? Debate over the German Constitution in 1787-1788

Summary/Abstract: In the second half of the eighteenth century, several competing interests were threatening the existence of the Holy Roman Empire. The most important cohesive force, the Reichsverfassung was stiffened along the Austro-Prussian frontlines. Though concepts had been drafted about the reform or transformation of the imperial constitution, all these came to nothing in the end. While some suggested the dissolution of the Empire, others regarded an inner renewal as the only solution. The future of Germany was a popular topic in political essays, as well. This paper offers the analysis of two political essays from 1787-1788, which discuss the necessity of the imperial constitution by trying to answer the question: Does Germany need an Emperor?

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