How Monarchs Address Their Subjects: A Comprehensive Guide

When addressing their subjects, monarchs follow a set of formal protocols that reflect their royal status and the social status of the person being addressed. These protocols vary between different monarchies and can also depend on the specific context and the relationship between the monarch and the subject.

Common Addressing Conventions

For example, a king or even a duke addresses a knight, guard, or any other subject in exactly the same way as anyone else would:

Knights: ldquo;Sir Firstnamerdquo; Guards: ldquo;Sergeantrdquo;, ldquo;Corporalrdquo;, or simply ldquo;Guardrdquo;. Others: By their title or position (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Archbishop, etc.).

Protocol for Formal Encounters

During formal encounters such as ceremonies or state functions, monarchs adhere to strict protocols. For instance, when addressing individuals, they use their titles, grades, or positions:

Minister Archbishop General Soldier Guard Doctor Marquess Admiral Judge Adviser

If a title or position is not available, they might use ldquo;Senyorrdquo; (Sir) or ldquo;Madamerdquo; as a general term of respect.

Personalized Addressing

Monarchs also have the flexibility to address individuals based on the formality of the situation and the relationship with the subject. For example:

During a formal state banquet or awards ceremony, the monarch may address individuals using their titles. In a more informal setting, they may use first names or titles of respect. In urgent or emergency situations, a monarch might adopt a direct and imperative tone, as in, "Guard, follow me…”.

Historical Context

If we look into historical context, prior to Spain's first written constitution in 1812, the monarch referred to their people collectively as ldquo;my vassals.rdquo; This term, which might initially sound derogatory, was actually used as a term of endearment. Subsequently, ldquo;vassalsrdquo; were elevated to ldquo;citizens,rdquo; a term that remains to this day.

Regional Differences

The formality and strictness of these protocols vary between different monarchies. For instance:

The British and Spanish courts have very rigorous protocols with a large set of rules governing interactions. The Scandinavian courts, on the other hand, are noticeably less formal.

Understanding these protocols is crucial for both subjects and guests in royal audiences. It ensures that the royal interaction is harmonious, respectful, and appropriate to the occasion.