Who Curtsies to the Queen? Understanding Royal Protocol

Learn who traditionally curtsies to the Queen and the guidelines of royal etiquette.

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Traditionally, women are supposed to curtsy to the Queen, while men give a respectful bow from the neck. However, this is not a mandatory protocol and modern practices have become more flexible. Foreign nationals and non-Commonwealth citizens are not required to perform these gestures, though many choose to do so out of respect during formal occasions.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the proper way to curtsy? To curtsy, stand straight, place one foot behind the other, bend your knees slightly, and keep your head up.
  2. Do men have to bow to the Queen? Yes, men traditionally bow from the neck as a sign of respect, though it is not mandatory.
  3. Can foreigners curtsy or bow to the Queen? Yes, while not required, many foreigners choose to curtsy or bow to show respect at formal events.
  4. Has royal etiquette changed over time? Yes, modern practices have become more flexible, and many traditional protocols are now optional.