There had been sudden changes taking place in the titles of the royal members with the death of the matriarch, Queen Elizabeth II. The longest-serving heir-apparent in British history has now taken kingship as King Charles III. And Prince William gets King Charles’s previous roles and responsibilities. What about King Charles’s wife Camilla Parker-Bowles? What does her title Queen Consort mean? And is there some controversy related to the title?
During the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II in February, the Queen said, “when, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me; and it is my sincere wish that, when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service.” Thus, Camilla, had the title changed to Queen Consort early this year by the Queen herself. Here’s more about the role.
Read More: What Are The New Titles Of Prince Harry And Meghan’s Kids? Will King Charles Allow It?
What Does Queen Consort Mean?
Queen Consort is the traditional title that is bestowed upon the wife of a reigning monarch. While the title Queen is reserved exclusively for the female rulers who became monarchs through the line of succession, like Queen Elizabeth. With King Charles III on the throne, his wife, former Duchess of Cornwall has now become the Queen Consort.
Camilla is the first to hold the title since Queen Elizabeth II’s mother, the wife of George VI. But then what about a queen’s husband? As we know Queen Elizabeth’s husband, the late Prince Philip was known as Prince Consort and not King Consort. This was because the prestigious title of King can only be given to the male who reigns as the monarch.
Read More: Why Does Charles III, The King Of England, Not Have A Passport Or Driving License?
What Is The Controversy Surrounding The Title?
The controversy started because of the title change. In 2005, when King Charles married his second wife, Camilla Parker- Bowles. Then it was announced that she would be known as the Princess Consort when Prince Charles becomes the monarch. This decision to name Camilla, the Princess Consort must have been due to the sensitivity of the issue at that time.
Years later, the hostility towards Camilla has faded. She is a supporter of victims of rape and domestic violence, engages in the improvement of health and literacy, and is also an ardent animal lover. It was earlier this year that Queen Elizabeth II bestowed the title Queen Consort on Camilla, to be used when her husband ascends the throne.
Read More: Who Is King Charles’ Sister? Can She Become The Queen After Him?
