The Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom is a heraldic symbol that represents the monarchy and the authority of the reigning sovereign. It has evolved over many centuries, incorporating elements that represent various parts of the United Kingdom.
The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom: A Symbol of Majesty and History
The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom is a quintessential emblem of the British monarchy, encapsulating the heritage and authority of the reigning sovereign. It is used by the Queen in her official capacity and is a symbol of the unity of the nation. The Coat of Arms is complex, rich in symbolism, and steeped in history.
The Shield
At the heart of the Coat of Arms is the shield, which is divided into four quarters. The first and fourth quarters represent England and contain three gold lions passant (walking) on a red field, symbolizing courage and England's royal heritage. The second quarter represents Scotland and contains a red lion rampant within a double tressure flory-counter-flory, signifying the fierce defense of the Scottish kingdom. The third quarter represents Ireland and shows the gold harp of Ireland on a blue field, illustrating the sovereignty of the Irish people and the ancient tradition of Irish bardic culture.
The Supporters
Flanking the shield are two heraldic supporters: the lion and the unicorn, representing England and Scotland, respectively. The lion stands on the left side of the shield and is crowned, just like the lion in the first and fourth quarters of the shield, embodying strength, bravery, and royalty. The unicorn on the right is chained, an ancient symbol reflecting the medieval belief that unicorns were dangerous creatures that could only be tamed by a virgin; it signifies purity and strength.
The Helm and Crest
Above the shield is the helm, which is shown facing the viewer and bears the royal helmet of the United Kingdom, which is only used by the sovereign. On top of the helm is the crest, a golden lion statant guardant (standing and looking out), also crowned. This crowned golden lion, standing on a royal crown, represents the sovereign's role as defender of the faith and supreme ruler.
The Motto
Beneath the shield is a garter that bears the motto "Honi soit qui mal y pense," which translates to "Shame be to him who thinks evil of it." This ancient motto of the Order of the Garter, the senior order of knighthood in the United Kingdom, serves as a reminder of the chivalric values associated with the monarchy.
The Compartment
Below the entire coat of arms is the compartment, which typically shows a representation of the native flora of the United Kingdom, consisting of a Tudor rose, a Scottish thistle, and a shamrock for Ireland. These floral emblems sit on one mound, signifying the unity of the three nations under one sovereign.
The Scroll
Finally, the scroll below the compartment carries the motto "Dieu et mon droit," which means "God and my right." This has been the motto of the English, and later British, monarchs since the time of Henry V and signifies the divine right of the sovereign to govern.
Conclusion
The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom is more than just an official symbol; it's a tapestry of history and culture, representing centuries of monarchical tradition. It is displayed in various forms throughout the government and the monarchy, from official documents to courtrooms, reminding citizens and visitors alike of the enduring legacy of the British Crown.