No rhymes this time, at least not intentionally...
Prince is used by Tolkien in at least two different ways, which reflects the word's historical use.
The word, prince, is derived from principal, as in primary individual; hence, leader.
Originally, princes were not sons of kings; rather, they were rulers in their own right; such as the Seven Principalities of the Holy Roman Empire in feudal Europe. These seven Princes elected the Holy Roman Emperor.
Likewise, the Princes of the Noldor were equals, ruling over their own lands - but their father, Feanor, had he survived, would have been considered High King of the Noldor; since he didn't survive, the title was passed down.
Hmmm.... I don't recall, did the next High King of the Noldor get elected, or did he inherit the title?
So that's ONE usage of the word; I think that Peregrin Took is called Prince of the Halflings in this sense, of the Ruler of the Halflings - almost correct. He was in line to become the next Took and Thain, which was, as a matter of fact, virtually the "High Lord of the Hobbits", so to speak (check your appendices for verification).
Imrahil as Prince of Dol Amroth is another example of this.
Then there is the peculiarly English use of the title, Prince, as heir to the King or Queen. Prince of Wales. Prince of Minas Tirith probably fits under this as well; although, it's an odd usage, seeing as Denethor was not King but Steward.
Just goes to show that these titles can be used loosely as one chooses, within certain reasonable bounds.
I would be interested in a run-down of what titles Tolkien DOES use for sons and daughters of rulers in the Sil, Hobbit, and LotR. Anybody game for that?
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