Let’s play “Help the American”…

[saharris]

Prince Charles is known as “HRH The Duke of Rothesay” in Scotland – since, as I understand it, that is his senior Scottish title as is traditional for the heir apparent to the Scottish throne.

Then is Prince William properly known in Scotland as “HRH Earl of Carrick”, that being Prince Charles’ next-highest Scottish title, as a courtesy title?

(If so, then presumably Prince William’s heir would be logically entitled to “HRH Lord Renfrew” if Charles had not yet ascended...)

[JSFMACLJR]

Prince Charles is known as “HRH The Duke of Rothesay” in Scotland – since, as I understand it, that is his senior Scottish title as is traditional for the heir apparent to the Scottish throne.

Then is Prince William properly known in Scotland as “HRH Earl of Carrick”, that being Prince Charles’ next-highest Scottish title, as a courtesy title?

(If so, then presumably Prince William’s heir would be logically entitled to “HRH Lord Renfrew” if Charles had not yet ascended...)

Good questions. Normally, you might expect that, but with royal titles, other rules seem to apply.

I believe that the Dukedom of Rothesay and the Earldom of Carrick are titles invested on the Monarch's eldest son and heir, and as such belong solely to the Heir. They are not considered "courtesy titles" for his offspring.

Consider the fact that one of the titles that the Duke of Edinburgh bears is that of "The Earl of Merioneth." In theory, Prince Charles would bear that title as a courtesy title--being his father's heir--but Merioneth is never considered one of Prince Charles' titles. On one hand, he doesn't need a courtesy title, as he is a duke in his own right of being the Heir to the Throne.

In any case, in Scotland the eldest son and heir of an Earl is styled "The Master of..." While I like the sound of HRH The Master of Carrick, am not aware of any Royal Highnesses being styled "Master." Somebody out there will know for sure!