When a monarch dies.

[Mortartube]

I have often seen films where a monarch dies and someone says something like "The King is dead. Long live the King". What does this actually mean?

Does it mean the monarch is dead, long live the new monarch, or does it mean the monarch is dead, long live the memory of the deceased monarch?

Is this still said and if so, when our current Queen dies (and assuming Prince Charles becomes King), would they say "The Queen is dead, long live the King"?

[baileybird]

I always understood it to mean the old monarch has died, long love the new monarch.

[baileybird]

or even better.. long LIVE the new monarch!!!!

[andy-hughes]

It does indeed mean long life to the new monarch.

The phrase is traditional - because more often than not, the new monarch would be a king, but it is easily adapted to allow for the gender of the incoming ruler.

[jno]

it's meant to emphasise the continuity of the institution of monarchy. Strictly speaking it's wrong because the new monarch doesn't become one until the coronation.

[Mortartube]

I am not a Royalist but I must disagree with you about prince Phillip, Docspock.

He is the best stand up comedian this country has. With his jovial racist banter and cheeky little digs, he always makes me laugh and therefore he is worth every penny of the civil list.
I agree about the rest of them though.

[kempie]

jno - do not confuse coronation with accession.

The accession of the new monarch is immediate upon death of the predecessor. The coronation is merely a ceremony to formalise the passing of the crown and regalia.

[R1Geezer]

yes as Kempie says jno, the new monarch acceeds immediately on death.

[coccinelle]

dockspock, who would you have as president?

[NiceCupOfTea]

I'm with Terry Pratchett on this one. If the monarchy proves anything, it is that something can move faster than light. Kingship. The exact moment the old monarch is dead, the new monarch is, well, the monarch. He called the particle involved a 'kingeon' or something. I'm sure 'revolution' particles could stop the 'kingeon', but I think he discussed those as well. If not, he should have done so.