The Definition of a Noble Person: The Qualities That Define Nobility

Many people around the world are curious about the glamorous and historic social group known as the nobility. 

This social class has acquired an identity of its own, one that’s elevated from the rest of society, that includes a range of curious rules and formal hierarchies. 

Beyond the ranks and protocol of the nobility, however, there is still the notion that those belonging to those esteemed social groups have a certain nobility about them, i.e. certain qualities that lend them an air of authority, honour or importance. 

While the days of powerful nobles commanding unquestioned subservience and respect are long gone, there’s still a strong theme of noble character that runs through the entire spectrum of aristocratic classes. 

The Definition Of A Noble Person

In the simplest sense, the definition of a noble person is that they belong to the noble class, also known as the aristocracy. 

This is a formal social hierarchy with defined ranks and titles. A person who joins the ranks of this noble class, or who is born into it, is regarded as a noble person. 

Terms such as nobleman or noblewoman indicate that the individuals in question were born into a noble family, i.e. one that ranks among the aristocratic groups within society. 

Of course, there are also definitions of a noble person that simply mean a person of noble character, rather than aristocratic birth. 

While it may seem that these two definitions are unrelated, the history of the aristocracy reveals that the very origins of the noble classes were rooted in the idea of an honourable or noble character. 

The Qualities That Define Nobility

The qualities that have come to define the noble class are the very aspects of character that led to the evolution of this esteemed social group many centuries ago. 

As human civilisation developed and social groups began to form, notable citizens were often identified as being natural leaders or particularly successful military champions. 

These people began to rise through the ranks of the social orders, often being recognised by the ruling sovereigns or cultural leaders. 

Over time, titles and formal roles were attributed to these outstanding characters, in recognition of their contribution but also as a way of elevating them within society, so that others could look to them for leadership. 

As time went on, these titles of nobility began to assume a value of their own, irrespective of the character of the recipient. 

For example, the original Barons and Lords were usually the valiant protectors of medieval kings. Whereas during the later Middle Ages, a king or queen may grant the title of Baron or Lord to one of their favoured courtiers – regardless of any exceptional characteristics or performance. 

Crusader Cavalry – Nobility offered protection in exchange for service

Despite this evolution of noble titles away from the original measure of character, the nobility on the whole maintained a degree of this high calibre sense of honour and noble characteristics. 

Throughout history, the many people who have populated the official ranks and realms of the aristocracy have shown a deep and enduring sense of the very same characteristics that the original aristocrats were known for.

Here are some of the qualities that defined the original nobles, and that are still upheld as characteristics typical of the aristocratic classes. 

A Question Of Character

Ideals such as honesty, integrity, loyalty and chivalry have long been the hallmarks of the most respected members of the nobility. As many great minds and philosophers have acknowledged, those in positions of power also bear a great responsibility towards those in their care and to their fellow citizens. 

While the social elevation that characterised the aristocrats and nobles may seem to be an enviable blessing, there’s no doubt that a noble birth or aristocratic rank also demanded a higher degree of noble character. 

A Tradition Of Altruism

Along with a strong and honourable character, another hallmark of the noble classes throughout history has been a tendency to do what modern minds might call Paying It Forward. 

The concept of noblesse oblige, i.e. the idea that being noble brings with it certain responsibilities to care for others, has been an enduring theme throughout the development of the aristocratic classes. 

While some individuals may have adhered to this philosophy more keenly than others, there’s no doubt that as a social group, the nobility has historically embraced the idea that altruism is an honourable characteristic that should be aspired to and practiced when possible. 

A Legacy Of Esteem & Honour

For families of all backgrounds and class origins, a sense of tradition and respect for the past is a common feature, particularly in previous generations. 

Within the nobility, however, this aspect of honouring ancestors and upholding family values has typically been a strong and unwavering part of both the culture and survival of the aristocracy. 

As the nobility grew in power, wealth, and stature over the centuries, many noble families acquired grand estates or historic properties such as palaces, castles and vast mansions. These became known as the family seat, and would often be kept within the family for generations. 

It may seem like a gift to inherit a vast estate or a beautiful stately home, but for many nobles, these properties are not solely for their enjoyment. They often regard their role as stewards for future generations. For some, there is even tremendous pressure to maintain these ancient family homes, particularly in recent years when Inheritance Tax has threatened many noble properties. 

This sense of honouring the past and protecting the legacy for future generations is another enduring characteristic of the nobility. A deep and abiding sense of tradition and esteem for the family name was a notable aspect of many aristocrats throughout the ages and is still very much alive in the nobility of today. 

The attitudes towards the aristocratic classes have shifted greatly over the centuries, and there have been many who believed in the abolition of formal class structures. Yet there’s no denying what history has repeatedly shown us – that it’s human nature to elevate certain noteworthy individuals.

The noble classes of the ages have also shown that the very characteristics that created these ranks of nobility and aristocrats are very closely linked to the literal definitions of noble character.

If learning about these noble characteristics has made you curious about acquiring a prestigious Noble Title of your own get in touch using the enquiry form in the sidebar or you can contact our Geneva office directly between 10.00-19.00, Monday to Friday on +41 225 181 360.