By propounding the theory of social contract, Hobbes was trying to restore monarchy in England for who among the following kings?

Correct option is C

Thomas Hobbes, in his seminal work "Leviathan" published in 1651, developed his theory of the social contract in the context of the English Civil War and the interregnum period that followed. Hobbes wrote "Leviathan" with the intention of providing a philosophical foundation for the restoration of the monarchy in England, which had been disrupted by the Civil War and the execution of Charles I in 1649. His theory was aimed at justifying the absolute authority of the monarch, arguing that in the absence of such authority, society would revert to a state of nature characterized by chaos and violence. While Hobbes' work could be interpreted as supportive of monarchy in general, it was **Charles II**, Charles I's son, for whom Hobbes was particularly trying to justify the restoration. After the death of Oliver Cromwell, the protectorate weakened, leading to the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 when Charles II was invited to return to England and claim the throne. Thus, Hobbes' philosophical efforts were aligned with the restoration efforts for Charles II.
Information Booster:
- (a) Charles I was the king executed during the Civil War, leading to the interregnum period Hobbes wrote against.
- (b) George I ascended the British throne much later, in the 18th century, well after Hobbes' time.
- (d) While Hobbes' theory supports the concept of monarchy, it was specifically aimed at aiding the restoration efforts for Charles II, making the other options less directly relevant.