Should the word king be capitalized?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the capitalization of the word "king" in different contexts, particularly in reference to King Henry from "A Man for All Seasons." Participants explore when it is appropriate to capitalize the term based on its usage in specific titles versus general references.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests capitalizing "the King" when referring to a specific king, such as King Henry.
  • Another participant agrees with the capitalization in specific contexts, such as "Hail, the King of England!" but notes that it may not be necessary in more general references like "the king of England must never travel without his bodyguards."
  • Some participants propose that capitalization is appropriate when the term is used as a title for a specific individual, while it may not be needed when discussing kings in general.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the capitalization of "king," with some advocating for capitalization in specific contexts and others suggesting it is not always necessary. The discussion remains unresolved regarding a definitive rule.

Physics is Phun
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Should the word king be capitalized. I am writing a monolouge for "A man for all seasons" and I have to refer to king henry but I don't know when I a call him "the king" if it should be in capitals or not.
 
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I'd go with "the King".
 
I believe the word is capitalized when used in reference to a specific king, e.g. King Henry, because it is rightfully that person's title. When used in reference to kings in general, e.g. the king of England, it need not be capitalized.

- Warren
 
Even in chroot's example I'd capitalize in the following context : " Hail, the King of England !" but perhaps not in this context : "The king of England must never travel without his bodyguards."

The first example uses capitalization because it refers to a specific king. So, I'd say you should capitalize it too. (ie : I concur with devious and chroot)
 

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