MAJESTY vs. HIGHNESS
“Majesty” and “Highness” are two common terms used to address people of higher society. In addressing royals, it is of importance to show courtesy. That is why “Majesty” and “Highness” were coined. These two terms have a philosophical and affluent history rooted since the medieval period. Although it seems like they have the same meaning and usage, which is what many of us think, these terms actually have differences as to whom is to be addressed. How else do these terms differ with each other? Let’s find out.
“Majesty,” (măj’ĭs-tē), capital “M” is defined as the greatness and dignity of a sovereign. It can as well pertain to the sovereignty and power of God. It is a term or title used to denote respect to the ruling monarchs in a state or country. This is frequently addressed to name kings and emperors as well as queens and empresses. This term applies to the highest ruler on land, mainly second or with almost the same power or distinction with God. “Majesty” is believed to pertain as a reflection of the monarch’s powerful domain and to fill the monarch’s thirst to be known and be exceedingly above all his subjects. The title comes with the highest responsibility to its subjects or people under his or her power or ruling.
“Highness,” (hī’nĭs), capital “H” is a title or honor for royalty. On the other hand, it is addressed to any member of the royal family–prince, princess–other than monarchs; king, emperor, queen, empress. It is used with His, Her, Your, or Their. For example, Their Highnesses the Prince and Princess. This address is not routine or required. The decision to be addressed as “Highness” depends if the members prefer to be addressed as such. If “Majesty” denotes the highest rank, “Highness” then conveys arrogance and honor other than signifing a high status in society.
Some people have gained more than one rank or title like in the case of the many new members of al-Barran. Some of them decided on a title other than their highest title. Never double it up like “Duke Sir Randy” nor “Countess Madaam Kathryn.” Just use one title at a time.
During formal occasions like, for example, giving a speech, a king or queen may be addressed by “My Lord, My Liege” or “My Lady Queen.” The crown prince and crown princess can be addressed as “Your Highness” (for the prince of the Outlands) and “Your Royal Highness” (for the prince of Atenveldt) for differentiation purposes.
The bottom line is, “Majesty” and “Highness” are alike in such a way that it is used as titles for royalty. The difference is that “Majesty” is ranked higher than “Highness.” “Majesty” is for kings and queens while “Highness” is for princes and princesses. “Majesty” is widely or traditionally or voluntarily used while “Highness” is used only depending on the member’s preference. Both denote a higher status, and both signify obedience and dignity. Both are used by the people to show respect and honor to their monarchs.
SUMMARY:
1.“Majesty” is a title given to kings, emperors, queens, and empresses. “Highness” is a title for princes and princesses or other members of the royal family.
2.“Majesty” means with the highest rank; “Highness” just exudes loftiness and honor as well as an exalted status.
3.When a double title is attained by the monarch, only one title is used in addressing the said monarch.
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Where the person is ranked highest in his or her domain, which is however within another, in which sovereignty vests, the appropriate address will be Highness, and not Majesty. For example in African countries where sovereignty resides in a republican government to which the royalty’s domain is subject or subordinate by law and constitution, Majesty would still be inappropriate even where said royalty is the highest customary and traditional authority. In brief, use of Majesty requires and is subject to sovereignty.
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