Some might wonder why I chose the title of this blog, and perhaps concluded, erroneously, that it is some adulation of humble me. But no, it has more to do with the title Don than with me, I promise. Stick around and I will be happy to indulge your curiosity.
With the invention of film in 1890 by Thomas Edison and television in 1927 by Philo Taylor Fansworth; our American culture as been bombarded with cinema. For some of us it has been a window into how other people behave and solve their problems. It would not surprise me at all if in hearing the term Don the first inclination for most of us is to think of Don Corlene of The Godfather; or Don Quixote de la Mancha of literary fame. But no, my pretties, Don has a rich history that resounds in the medieval halls of Spain and her Mediterranean contemporaries.
Originally, the title Don was reserved only for God, Jesus Christ and the saints. Later, the Spanish medieval monarchy applied it to kings, high nobles and archbishops. Dueño or in the feminine Dueña has Latin origins, from the word "dominus" meaning "Lord of the house." Which is why if you have had the joy of watching one our "Novelas" (Soap Operas) on TeleMundo (now, now, there is no shame, we know Americans are hooked on them too), you will notice that the stern. middle aged, handsome man who is revered by all in the ranch is addressed as "Don Emilio" or "Don Juan." That reverence comes from the fact that he is a Landowner, a "jefe" (boss), and therefore, a decorum of respect is strictly followed.
Presently, in Spain, for example, the use has been gradually limited to writings, teachers and catholic priests. Don is more commonly used in the south of Italy and Latin America. Latin America is comprised of many uniquely and diverse countries. In some areas, Don is used for someone that has gain respect throughout their community. In others, only for those who have reached an advanced age. In a different aspect, "The treatment of Don or Doña is used for persons of Hispanic heritage, either by birth or marriage."* Meaning, when a woman marries she can gain or lose the use of her title. Also, Don is more commonly used in Hispanic regions when a person reaches legal age or is married. And in differentiating a person in a higher position in the workplace.
I started this blog believing that the term Don or Doña was strictly used as a connotation to being a landowner. An easily arrived conclusion since dueño in Spanish means owner. But in researching the term, I found that in the 1600's it was also used for those who achieved a great feat, or were counts or countesses, or were bishops or cardinals, or of military rank; and later evolved it's usage to those whom had children, or got a diploma, or reached an advanced age. My telenovela notion of being a Doña is shattered. Because according to it's discovered uses, I have been Doña Gladys for quite sometime now. Thanks TeleMundo!!!!
*Wikipedia - Don (tratamiento) {Spanish} Last edited August 2, 2019.
