The history of the aristocracy, indeed the history of the world, has been populated by a colourful cast of famous and legendary Dukes and Duchesses.
Throughout the centuries, people of all classes and levels of society have been fascinated by the lives and adventures of noble Dukes and their families.
Even in modern times, with all the cultural shifts towards equality and political correctness, the masses still love to follow the lives and fortunes of the contemporary Dukes and Duchesses of the world.
But what’s it like to live at that level of social esteem? What are the advantages of being a high-ranking noble? And are there any benefits to having such an esteemed aristocratic title?
To give you a glimpse of the perks of being a Duke, here are just a few of the ways that such an elevated social status can bring superlative advantage and privilege.
Prestige and Influence
Perhaps one of the grandest perks of being a Duke is the prestige and influence within society that such a high-ranking noble position commands.
During the heyday of aristocratic power, those in possession of a Dukedom, as well as their families and relatives, could enjoy the many benefits of being sought-after and highly-valued VIPs.
The Dukes and Duchesses of old were regarded as members of the very highest echelons of society, and as such, they would have been in demand as honoured guests at any social function.
In fact, such was the social collateral of these esteemed nobles, that their presence or absence at an event could make or break the reputation of the host.
Even in modern times, having a Duke or Duchess attend a dinner, party, gathering, opening or any kind of social event is regarded as a significant endorsement of its calibre.
Political Power
During the centuries of medieval times and the renaissance, the Dukes of history held considerable political influence and power. For some monarchies, the kings and queens were careful to keep these powerful nobles on their side, knowing that should the armies of wealthy and influential Dukes turn against them, there could be coups and rebellion.
Many of the seats of governance would be granted to Dukes and other high-ranking nobles as part of ancient traditions, and these political rights were often inherited by future generations.
This meant that over time, the families of Dukes, their sons and descendants, could establish powerful roles in the corridors of power, both in terms of official roles in government, as well as unofficial influence at the highest levels of society.
A Financial Edge
It’s no secret that the finances of the aristocracy varied greatly over the centuries, with many vast fortunes being won, wagered and lost by the various individuals.
Yet, there is an inherent, unspoken esteem and value attributed to those with noble titles. So, the possession of a title such as a Duke or Duchess is an asset in itself, regardless of the specific details of their economic status.
After centuries of social influence and history, it’s not surprising that being a Duke commands a certain level of admiration and trust, and this can be translated to a financial advantage in certain circumstances.
Even modern Dukes, a role that is increasingly rarified and uncommon, are generally assumed to be wealthy and financially sound, with their lineage, and possibly even land and property, to ensure their stability, solvency and sound financial strength.
These assumptions, however accurate, can be used to real advantage in both business and private transactions.
Lineage and History
While it may not be the most glamourous or influential aspect of being a Duke, there is a true sense of a valuable tradition, history and esteemed social lineage in such an ancient noble title.
Becoming a Duke or a Duchess, or inheriting the title, has always been a hallmark of singular social advancement, achievement or accomplishment.
The ancient lineage that runs through the dukedoms of history is something that the nobility as a whole has always been intensely proud of, and keen to fiercely protect.
These ancient lines of tradition and noble succession are rare in the modern world in that they carry advantages and benefits that money simply cannot buy.
Noble Values
Inherent in the lineage of any aristocrat is a core tradition of noble values, and many of the Dukes and Duchesses of the ages have represented their class and status with honour.
As a result, the role of Duke is often associated with great works for society and their fellow man – an association that automatically lends an air of respect to all those bearing the title of Duke or Duchess.
While the many members of the aristocracy over the centuries may have varied in their embodiment of these virtues and values, there’s no denying that a rich vein of altruism, service and contribution runs through the lines of noble families right back to the origins of the aristocracy in medieval times.
There are many perks of being a Duke, from the social and political to the historical and financial.
While these advantages used to be the reserve of those born into the right family at the right time and in the right order, it’s a little known fact that it’s possible for any individual to purchase the noble title of Duke and discover the many perks and benefits of this esteemed social rank for themselves.
It may not be a common practice – the opportunities are increasingly rare and only available through select specialist agencies – but the acquisition of a Dukedom is something that many of the ancient Dukes would be familiar with, it may even be the origin of their family line of Dukes and Duchesses.
So if you feel drawn to the many benefits of such an esteemed noble rank and title, the good news is that it’s possible for you to discover the perks of being a Duke for yourself, and for your family and future generations.