what is a viscount vs duke

The British peerage system is composed of both lifetime and hereditary titles and ranks that form the constituent aspect of the historic peerage system in the UK. The five ranks of the peerage, in descending order of precedence, are duke, marquess, earl, viscount, and baron. The highest rank of the peerage is the duke, followed by the marquess, earl, viscount, and baron. The viscount is ranked below duke, marquess, and earl, but above baron. The title of viscount had its origin in the office of the deputy or the lieutenant (vice-comes) of a count, a rank that had become hereditary in the Holy Roman Empire by the beginning of the 10th century. Viscounts were always created by letters patent under the Great Seal, which represents the Sovereign’s authority. While both titles are distinctive and noble, the status of a duke is associated with more power and influence than that of a viscount.