If Princess Charlotte Were Queen: What Title Would Prince Edward Hold?

With the recent coronation of King Charles III, the British monarchy has taken another significant turn. Interestingly, the scenario of Princess Charlotte ascending to the throne raises an intriguing question: What title would Prince Edward, her husband, hold? The answer to this query is based on historical precedents, current royal rules, and the nature of the British monarchy.

Historical Precedents Set the Stage

Historically, when a woman reigns as the Queen of the United Kingdom, her husband typically holds the title of Prince Consort. This is exemplified by the longstanding relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, whose title was altered by the British Parliament in response to his wife's status.

Queen Regnant and Prince Consort

If Princess Charlotte someday were to become the Queen Regnant, meaning she would reign in her own right, her husband Prince Edward would more likely be styled as the Prince Consort. This aligns with the precedent set by Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, as well as Queen Anne. It's historically clear that a man who marries a reigning queen would not assume the title of King, as this would imply a ranking above her.

Prince Philip's Case

Prince Philip's title serves as a prime example of how the British royal family adjusts titles to accommodate the reigning monarch. He was the Duke of Edinburgh, a title he inherited, but his wife's status as Queen allowed him to be recognized as the Prince Consort, further distinguishing his role.

Non-Reigning Consorts in Other Countries

It's also pertinent to mention that there are instances where a queen marries a man from outside the reigning royal line who is not a king but still holds a significant role, such as when Mary of Scotland married Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley, or when various Spanish queens married non-royals who became dukes but not kings.

Email of the Situation

With the current British royal family structure, it's highly unlikely that Princess Charlotte's husband would be granted a title that implies his status exceeds that of her monarchial role. While he could be granted a title such as Duke, such a grant would be contingent on his wife's wishes and the monarchy's approval.

Conclusion: No King Consort

Given the British royal traditions and current status, it is improbable for Prince Edward to be conferred the title of King Consort. He will likely be known as the Prince Consort, as has been the case with Prince Philip and the spouses of other British queens historically. The titles and styles granted to him would be decided by Queen Charlotte herself, reflecting both her wishes and the traditions of the British monarchy.