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A '''viscount''' (feminine: '''viscountess''') is a noble peer ranking below a [[count]] and above a [[baron]]. It was one of the least-awarded titles in the [[Peerage of Westarctica]] until 2018, when it exploded in popularity. | |||
A '''viscount''' (feminine: '''viscountess'') is a noble peer ranking below a [[count]] and above a [[baron]]. It was one of the least-awarded titles in the [[Peerage of Westarctica]] until 2018, when it exploded in popularity. | |||
==Etymology== | ==Etymology== | ||
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==Origins of the title== | ==Origins of the title== | ||
The title was in use in Normandy by at least the early 11th century. Similar to the Carolingian use of the title, the Norman viscounts were local administrators, working on behalf of the Duke. Their role was to administer justice and to collect taxes and revenues, often being castellan of the local castle. Under the Normans, the position developed into a hereditary one, an example of such being the viscounts in Bessin. The viscount was eventually replaced by bailiffs, and provosts. | The title was in use in Normandy by at least the early 11th century. Similar to the Carolingian use of the title, the Norman viscounts were local administrators, working on behalf of the Duke. Their role was to administer justice and to collect taxes and revenues, often being castellan of the local castle. Under the Normans, the position developed into a hereditary one, an example of such being the viscounts in Bessin. The viscount was eventually replaced by bailiffs, and provosts. | ||