The Titles and Ceremonial Claims of Royal Wives: An Insight into Princess Diana, Princess Catherine, and The Duchess of Sussex
In the intricate world of British royalty, the titles and honors bestowed upon the spouses of princes and dukes are as intricate as the history itself. It is a world where the nuances of royal protocol and the whims of royal titles often confuse even the most ardent fans. From the seemingly simple title of Princess to the more dignified Duchess, this article delves into the rules and practices surrounding these prestigious titles, using the examples of three prominent figures: Princess Diana, Princess Catherine, and The Duchess of Sussex.
Princess Diana: The Unglamorous Truth
Princess Diana, the beloved figure of the 1980s and 1990s, was often cited simply as "Princess Diana" or "Princess of Wales," to many people’s misconceptions. This was not due to any lack of respect but rather a reflection of the rules governing the British royal titles. Upon marriage, the wife of a prince usually adopts a Princess title before her husband’s title. However, after her divorce, Diana was referred to as "Diana, Princess of Wales," which she could continue to use until remarrying.
One common misunderstanding is the belief that "Princess" was simply a more glamorous version of "Duchess." This is far from accurate. The distinction lies in the marital status and hierarchy within the royal family. Diana was only referred to as "Princess" during her marriage. Once she left the matrimonial bond, her title was reclassified as "Diana, Princess of Wales," a reflection of her status as a royal divorced from her husband.
Princess Catherine: A Title of Dignity and Ceremonial Convention
Princess Catherine, commonly known as simply "Princess Kate" or "Princess of Wales," also follows the traditional pattern. Her title stems from her marriage to Prince William, who held the title "Prince of Wales," the highest royal title within the British lines of succession. The Princess of Wales title is the most senior among female titles, a true attestation to the royal hierarchy and heritage. This title, however, does not suggest a lower status but is a matter of protocol and precedence.
It is important to note that the titles Princess and Duchess do not imply different ranks or statuses within the royal family. They are simply allocations based on the current union of a wife and her husband. Upon the death of the current monarch, titles are often re-assigned or change, leading to a shift in protocol and titles within the family.
The Duchess of Sussex: A New Royal Patron
Welcoming a new duchess into the British monarchy, The Duchess of Sussex (née Meghan Markle) was conferred this title upon her marriage to Prince Harry. As a wife of a Duke, she adopted the title Duchess. Unlike Diana and Catherine, Meghan was not originally titled "Princess" due to the family's title being "Duke," not "Prince." The Duchess of Sussex signifies her status as the wife of a duke, a high-ranking noble.
The transition from "Princess" to "Duchess" is a frequent occurrence in British royal protocol. When a prince marries, his wife will adopt the princely title; if he is a duke, the wife takes the ducal title. This is often why we see names like "Princess of Wales" versus "Duchess of Sussex."
Conclusion: Understanding Royal Titles
The distinctions between Princess and Duchess in the British royal family are not about status but about the current association of a spouse with a royal figure. Diana, Princess of Wales, was a wife to the future King of England, while Princess Catherine (later Princess Kate) and The Duchess of Sussex both adhere to the same protocol based on their respective husbands’ titles.
Understanding these norms not only clarifies the often-misunderstood titles but also appreciates the rich and complex system of royal honors and titles passed down within the British royal line.
Key Takeaways: The title of Princess or Duchess is earned based on marital status and the current title of the spouse. Princess Diana was a princess during her marriage to Charles, Duke of Cornwall. Princess Catherine is a Princess of Wales, and The Duchess of Sussex is The Duchess of Sussex due to her marriage to Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex.