Duke

Written by Pookas Kreations

A Duke is the highest-ranking hereditary title in most countries, below the Prince. There are both Royal Dukes and non-royal Dukes. Royal Dukes are part of the ruling royal family of the country. These Royal Dukes hold both their royal title and up to multiple dukedoms elsewhere in their country or others. 

Each of the children of the present monarch, hold their own title besides their royal one. As they move up in rank, the title goes to their children. Dukedoms are a hereditary title, if a female inherits, they are called a Duchess. Some dukedoms can only be held by the firstborn of the respective Sovereign. 

A duke outranks all other holders of titles of nobility (marquess, earl, viscount, and baron; not all countries have these other titles). The wife of a duke is a duchess, as well as a woman who holds the same title. Although the husband of this type of duchess, doesn't hold the title of duke. Non-royal dukes without state offices or positions take precedence before other nobility, date of creation, but after royalty and officers of state.

A duke is a royal commander within his dukedom. They are the rulers of provinces and the superiors of counts in the cities. In some countries, dukes are the rulers and are called Grand Dukes.

A duchy is a territory or geopolitical entity ruled by a duke, and his territory or area is often called his dukedom. Some dukedoms carry no land, only the title.

Qualifications

This is a hereditary title, it is inherited from the firstborn child, usually a male. This depends on the country on whether a female can inherit.

Requirements

A duke can only inherit as an adult, if underage, a regent is appointed usually a mother or uncle. Rarely, someone not of the family is chosen.

Appointment

They are called to swear fealty to the crown, then the sovereign announces his new title.

Responsibilities

Collect and pay taxes to the King. Recruit and train soldiers for the King, oversee duchy, appoint sheriffs, judges, and lawyers to keep the law.

Type

Nobility, Hereditary

Form of Address

His greatness, my lord duke, your grace

Alternative Naming

His royal highness

Equates to

In some countries, a Duke, Earl, and Count are equivalent ranks. In others, the duke is hereditary and the others are awarded titles.

Source of Authority

King

Length of Term

Life

Reports directly to

Prince

Related Locations

• Dukedom