Proper Greetings and Titles for Royalty: A Guide

Introduction

Welcome to our guide on the proper way to greet royalty and the appropriate titles to use. This article is essential for those who wish to present themselves with cultural grace and respect, whether in formal or informal settings.

Understanding the Basics of Royal Etiquette

American citizens are not legally required to adopt specific manners or etiquette when interacting with royalty. However, it is courteous and expected to follow certain guidelines to show respect and maintain decorum. For instance, while bowing or curtseying is not a legal requirement, Americans may choose to do so if they feel it is appropriate, mirroring the practices of many other cultures and traditions.

Physical Greetings: Hands and Humility

Thoroughly understanding the nuances of greeting royalty is crucial. Unlike handshakes, which are common and universally recognized, making eye contact with a royal and expecting a handshake is not customary. In fact, it would be unusual for a royal to extend their hand for a handshake, as seen in the example where an American citizen can only shake hands with a royal if that person grants permission.

Imagine yourself at a formal event where you greet the Crown Prince of a European nation. Instead of reaching out for a handshake, it might be more suitable to bow slightly or curtsey (if you are a woman) in a gesture of respect. This act can vary based on the royal personage and the specific cultural practices they abide by. Regular handshaking would not only be frowned upon but could also be strenuous and potentially dangerous, making it a risky action in such social contexts.

Titles and Addresses: Etiquette Can Vary

Another aspect to consider is the choice of title and address. Royalty are addressed by titles such as 'His Highness' or 'Her Highness.' These titles are formal and indicate the royal's status. When it comes to last names, titles are always used over surnames. For instance, one should address Prince William of Wales as 'His Royal Highness Prince William of Wales' rather than using a personal surname, such as 'Prince Harry,' which is his first name, unless specifically requested by him.

It's important to note that while 'His' and 'Her Royal Highness' are commonly used, other titles can include 'His/Her Serene Highness' or 'His/Her Royal Highness Duke of Whatever.' These titles can vary based on the specific rank and status of the individual within the royal family. For example, Princess Beatrice of York is often addressed as 'Her Royal Highness The Princess Beatrice,' while a Duke would be referred to as 'His Royal Highness The Duke of Whatever.'

Personalized Etiquette: Learning the Preferences

Given the diverse nature of royal families and their different customs, it's advisable to learn the specific preferences of the royals you will be interacting with. Not all members of a royal family treat visitors exactly the same, and some might be more casual than others. In most cases, it's best to be on the safe side by adhering to formal etiquette and then following any personal signals or preferences each royal might exhibit.

For instance, while it is appropriate to call the Duchess of Cornwall (Camilla) 'Duchess Camilla' or 'Queen Consort Camilla,' Prince Harry might prefer to be addressed by a first name in casual settings. When in doubt, observe the lead given by the royal in question, and if no lead is evident, it's best to adhere to formal addresses to avoid any faux pas or offensives.

Conclusion: Cultural Sensitivity in Engagement

In conclusion, while the traditional courtesy of bowing and using appropriate titles is paramount, understanding and respecting the personal preferences of the specific royal is equally important. This guide provides a solid foundation for ensuring your interactions with royalty are respectful and memorable for all parties involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are American citizens legally required to bow or curtsey when greeting royalty?
A: No, American citizens are not legally required to bow or curtsey. However, it is culturally expected if the situation calls for it or if the royal themselves indicates such a preference.

Q: What is the correct way to initiate physical contact with royalty?
A: The correct way to initiate physical contact is to ensure that the royal offers their hand first. If this is not the case, you can respectfully bow or curtsey as a sign of respect.

Q: How do I use the correct titles for royalty?
A: Titles such as 'His Highness' or 'Her Highness' are the standard form of address. For princes, princesses, and dukes, you would typically say 'His/Her Serene Highness' or 'His/Her Royal Highness,' depending on the specific title and rank of the royal.

Additional Resources

For those interested in learning more about royal etiquette, we recommend researching the specific customs and preferences of different royal families and consulting official royal family websites for detailed information and updates.

Contact Us

If you have any further questions or would like to share your experiences in dealing with royalty, please feel free to reach out to us through our contact form. We are here to help and to ensure a smooth and respectful interaction with royalty.