The Pretender's Court

The Pretender's Court refers to the faction or royal household set up by a pretender—an individual claiming to be the rightful monarch—during a period of political conflict or dynastic dispute. This court often functions as a symbolic and operational center of the pretender’s claim, promoting their legitimacy, organizing support, and maintaining royal traditions, albeit without official recognition from the governing state. It embodies the pretender’s effort to establish a parallel monarchy, rallying supporters and preserving royal authority ideals outside the official royal court.