Meaning: The quote "Her old Grannie and subject must be the first to kiss her hand" is attributed to Queen Mary, also known as Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary Stuart was born on December 8, 1542, and reigned as Queen of Scotland from December 14, 1542, to July 24, 1567. She was the only surviving legitimate child of King James V of Scotland. Mary's reign was tumultuous and marked by political and religious conflict, ultimately leading to her forced abdication and imprisonment.

The quote reflects the etiquette and protocol expected of royalty during Mary's time. It emphasizes the importance of showing respect and deference to both familial elders, such as her grandmother, and her subjects. In royal courts, strict rules of etiquette and hierarchy governed interactions, and the act of allowing certain individuals to kiss the queen's hand was a significant display of honor and respect.

Mary, Queen of Scots, was known for her strong sense of royal authority and her adherence to the traditions and customs associated with her position. She was raised in the French court, where she was exposed to the elaborate rituals and ceremonies that accompanied royal life. As a result, she placed great importance on maintaining the dignity and prestige of the monarchy through adherence to established protocols and customs.

The quote also provides insight into the complex dynamics of power and authority within the royal court. By stipulating that her "old Grannie" and her subjects should be the first to kiss her hand, Mary sought to acknowledge both the familial ties that bound her to her grandmother and the loyalty and allegiance of her subjects. In doing so, she reinforced the reciprocal relationship between the monarch and the people, highlighting the symbiotic nature of royal authority.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the role of tradition and hierarchy in shaping royal behavior and interactions. In the context of the time, the act of kissing the queen's hand was a symbolic gesture of allegiance and submission. By dictating the order in which individuals were to perform this act, Mary asserted her control over the dynamics of deference and respect within the court.

It is important to note that the quote should be understood within the historical and cultural context of Mary, Queen of Scots' reign. The customs and expectations surrounding royal etiquette in the 16th century differed significantly from contemporary norms. The quote reflects the particular norms and values of the period, offering a glimpse into the intricacies of royal protocol and the performance of authority in the early modern era.

In conclusion, the quote "Her old Grannie and subject must be the first to kiss her hand" attributed to Queen Mary, Queen of Scots, encapsulates the complex interplay of tradition, hierarchy, and authority within the royal court. It underscores the significance of etiquette and protocol in shaping royal interactions and highlights the reciprocal relationship between the monarch and her subjects. Understanding the historical context of Mary's reign is crucial to appreciating the nuances and implications of this quote within the broader framework of royal behavior and expectations during the 16th century.