This article delves into the identity of the namesake of the Zelda series, asking why she is always referred to as "Princess" despite appearing and acting as queen.

“Princess Zelda”. Almost every Zelda game contains some reference to its namesake, the Princess of Hyrule, Zelda. Whether she is masquerading as Sheik or Tetra, if she is there in person or in spirit, or if we see her in the game or in a flashback, Zelda is always “Princess” Zelda. It’s as if Nintendo made the word “Princess” her first name and “Zelda” her surname.

I will admit that I am quite the Princess Zelda fan, and often find myself wondering why we see her acting in the role of the Monarch, and yet still bearing the title “Princess”. Ocarina of Time bears a single reference to the King of Hyrule—Zelda’s statement in the garden that Ganondorf swears fealty to her father, but she doubts his true intentions—and in The Wind Waker we actually get to meet one of the Kings of Hyrule, but that’s about it. Twilight Princess shows Zelda at the throne, head of the army with sword in hand facing the invader Zant. Spirit Tracks shows Zelda holding ceremonies and running the country under advisers. Neither game mentions a King or Queen. Just Princess Zelda, ruler of Hyrule.

Why is she only “Queen Zelda” by act, and never by title?

paintthisred via zeldauniverse.net »