Touching a royal family member beyond a formal handshake is generally avoided due to historical and symbolic reasons rooted in the concept of divine right.
Historical Context of Royal Untouchability
The prohibition against touching royals goes back centuries, primarily stemming from the belief in the divine right of monarchs. This concept, prevalent in the Middle Ages, held that kings and queens were chosen by God to rule, elevating them to a semi-sacred status.
- Divine Appointment: As noted by British historian Kate Williams, monarchs were "divinely appointed to rule by God, so they were kind of seen as" set apart from the general populace. This perceived divine connection created a barrier of respect and untouchability.
- Symbolic Distance: Physical distance and restrictions on touch were designed to emphasize the monarch's unique role and authority, reinforcing their position at the top of the social hierarchy.
Modern Royal Etiquette
While the absolute belief in divine right has diminished, the tradition of avoiding unnecessary physical contact with royals continues. This is maintained through etiquette and protocol, emphasizing respect and maintaining decorum.
Proper Interaction with Royals
The expected behavior when meeting a royal generally includes:
- Formal Greetings: A formal handshake is usually the accepted form of physical contact.
- No Hugging or Patting: Actions like hugging, back-patting, or touching the royals in any casual way are discouraged.
- Respectful Demeanor: Maintaining a respectful attitude, addressing them correctly, and being mindful of personal space are crucial.
Exceptions and Nuances
While touching is generally avoided, there are subtle exceptions and variations:
- Children: Royal children might receive a bit more casual interaction, especially from those they know.
- Specific Occasions: During certain public events, the royals might be more open to slight interactions. However, these are still dictated by the circumstances and protocol.
- Official Handshakes: Handshakes are a formal greeting and considered polite, rather than a violation.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Historical Basis | Belief in divine right; monarchs seen as divinely chosen. |
| Modern Etiquette | Formal handshakes are acceptable; other forms of touch are discouraged. |
| Symbolic Importance | Maintains respect for the monarchy and emphasizes the unique status of the royals. |
| Exceptions | Slight nuances can exist, such as interacting with royal children or during specific events |
In conclusion, the prohibition against touching royals stems from historical notions of divine right and continues today as a means of showing respect for their unique position. It's about protocol and maintaining the symbolic distance associated with the monarchy.
