Why Is Harry and Meghan’s Son Archie Known As Harrison?
The news that Harry and Meghan's son was born with the middle name "Harrison" has sparked some confusion. As with most royal children, he does not have a typical surname as the rest of us do, instead, he carries the name "Mountbatten-Windsor." However, the media and public often refer to him as "Archie Harrison," which might lead to misunderstandings. Let's break down the details and clarify the naming convention used.
The Official Name and Naming Convention
When speaking of the royal family, especially the younger members, it is important to recognize that their naming conventions can differ from the conventional use of last names. Prince Archie's full name is Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Here, "Harrison" is his middle name, while "Mountbatten-Windsor" serves as the family name, which is required for members of the British royal family.
Mountbatten-Windsor is the official surname used by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's son. This name was suggested by the Queen herself in 2017 after the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan. The name combines elements from both their family lines, honoring the Windsors and the Mountbatten family heritage. Being a middle name, "Harrison" is often referenced in public discourse, adding to the confusion around the naming.
The Naming Tradition in the Royal Family
The royal family has a tradition of using middle names in the context of the family name. For instance, Prince William's full name is William Arthur Philip Louis. Here, "Arthur Philip Louis" are his middle names, but he is usually referred to as "Prince William" or "Prince William of Wales." Similarly, Harry's son is officially Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, but he is often called "Archie Harrison."
The reason for this is largely a matter of tradition and practicality. In formal settings, the full name is used, but in media and public discourse, the middle name with the family name is more commonly used. For example, Prince Charles is known as "Prince Charles of Wales," and Prince George is often referred to as "Prince George of Cambridge." The same applies to Archie and his family name, Mountbatten-Windsor.
Theories and Speculations
However, there are some theories about why "Harrison" was chosen as the middle name. One popular theory suggests that Harrison was included to make it easier for Meghan to remember which of her ex-partners was the father of her child. This joke actually refers to the theory that Harrison is her middle name, which further clarifies the naming convention.
It is also worth noting that "Archie Harrison" could be a play on words. "Archie" is a Scottish name meaning "precious" or "genuine," and "Harrison" is a name that literally means "the son of Harry." This gives the name a meaning that could be considered fitting for their son, particularly if they wanted a name with more meaning beyond just a middle name.
The Importance of Respecting Privacy
While the naming convention of the royal family can seem complex, it is essential to respect the privacy and autonomy of the parents and the child. As with naming any child, the choice of names and naming conventions is the prerogative of the parents, and it is not the business of outsiders to dictate or speculate about such matters.
Conclusion: In summary, Prince Archie's full name is Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. "Harrison" is his middle name, and "Mountbatten-Windsor" is his family name. This naming convention is a blend of tradition, family heritage, and practical considerations. The use of "Archie Harrison" in public discourse does not change the full name. The media and public often use this format for simplicity and convenience, but it is important to recognize the full name and its significance.