Titles?

Have you ever wondered how some people in England are titled?  For example, Dame Judi Dench,  Sir Paul McCartney or The Earl of Grantham?

Well, there are different reasons why someone might hold a title in the United Kingdom.  Firstly, they can be inherited and many of the older ones, such as the Earl of Carnarvon, the owner of Highclere Castle where Downton Abbey is filmed, are inherited.

He would have received the title when his father passed on and, likewise, his son will receive his (the current Earl) when he passes on.

The other type of title is one that is bestowed by the Queen, or one of the top Royals, on someone who has done something which is deemed “great” for the country.  For example, Paul McCartney became “Sir Paul McCartney” in recognition for all that he did as a musician for the country.  The photo at the top is of the Queen knighting Nick Faldo, a winning golfer.  In 1988, Judi Dench was made a Dame for services to the performing arts by Queen Elizabeth.

And, most recently, Marcus Setchell became a knight.   Dr. Setchell — who delivered Prince William and Kate Middleton’s baby boy, Prince George, last July — was given the honor of knight commander by the Duke of Cambridge himself at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, March 18.  He thus became “Sir Marcus Setchell”.

It really is quite an honour, for the most part.  There is so much to read about this subject and, if you would like to know more, Burke’s Peerage is a good place to start.

So interesting!  Such tradition!  Such joy!