The eldest son of a duke is traditionally known by a specific courtesy title, which is typically his father's second-highest peerage title. This practice is a long-standing tradition within the aristocratic hierarchy, particularly in the British peerage.
The Courtesy Title System
Within the peerage, a duke often holds several titles of lesser rank (e.g., Marquess, Earl, Viscount, Baron) in addition to his primary dukedom. While the duke himself uses only his highest title, his eldest son is granted the use of one of these subordinate titles as a courtesy.
- Honorific Status: It's important to understand that a courtesy title is not a legal peerage in its own right. It does not grant the holder a seat in the House of Lords (if applicable) or any legal privileges associated with the rank. Instead, it is a social designation that acknowledges the individual's status as the heir apparent to the dukedom.
- Succession Indication: This system provides a clear public indication of the line of succession, allowing the heir to be formally recognized with a noble title from birth, long before they might inherit the dukedom.
Examples of Eldest Sons of Dukes
A common illustration of this convention can be seen with various ducal families. The eldest son assumes the courtesy title that his father, holding the superior ducal title, does not need to use.
| Father's Primary Title | Eldest Son's Courtesy Title (Example) | Contextual Example |
|---|---|---|
| Duke | Usually a Marquess or Earl | The eldest son of the Duke of Bedford is known as the Marquess of Tavistock. |
| Duke | Other secondary titles (e.g., Earl) | The eldest son of the Duke of Westminster is known as Earl Grosvenor. |
Naming Conventions for Other Children
While the eldest son receives a specific courtesy title from his father's secondary peerages, other children of a duke also follow distinct naming conventions:
- Younger Sons: Typically use the style "Lord [First Name] [Surname]." For instance, a younger son of the Duke of Norfolk would be known as Lord Edward Howard.
- Daughters: Are generally styled "Lady [First Name] [Surname]." For example, a daughter of the Duke of Devonshire would be known as Lady Alice Cavendish.
This structured system ensures that all members of a ducal family have a clear and traditional designation within the peerage.
