Because he is the mayor, Mr. Lucas has had the opportunity to be knighted, becoming Sir Lucas while his wife assumes the title of Lady Lucas. However, in Jane Austen’s time, a knight does not pass on his title to his heirs. Even though Lady Lucas and Lady Catherine have the same title of lady, the latter is still superior to the former because her title is inherited. This is more prestigious and further exaggerates the myriad social distinctions of life at that time.
Source:
“Susannah Carleton - Ranks, Titles, and Forms of Address." Susannah Carleton, Regency Author. Web. 14 Mar. 2010. http://www.susannahcarleton.com/rankstitlesaddress.html.
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