Title is earned here and failure to honor your duty is tantamount to treason.
The High Kingship, Jarldoms, and lesser nobility on Aurbis are sacred and foundational to the people of Skyrim. Title is earned in these tried and tested institutions and failure to honor your duty is tantamount to treason. The High Kingship and current major Jarldoms would have been historically established by powerful and prestigious clans, with one leader of each achieving recognition as a Jarl from a grand Moot. Jarls hold one vote each on the Moot, a simple majority affirms a Jarl or elects a High King, and the Moot disperses until called next time by the majority of Jarls. All Jarls must vote or vote by established proxy and may not vote for themselves. The upcoming Moot will test the already delicate balance between the Stormcloaks and the Imperials.
The nobility in Skyrim are a highly respected and acclaimed class often based in a feudal clan structure. Most come from renowned clans but many have established themselves through deed and ambition, making themselves indispensable to the high lords of powerful clans and houses. The lower nobility must fight a constant struggle to hold onto their wealth and influence. Jarls are often the head of powerful Nord clans and maintain power through Hersir, noble Lords with large holdings which are elevated to title and given legal rights amongst the holding.
Thanes are free men who have officially been accepted by and into the service of a Jarl and also reserve legal rights. A Thane's oath is for life, and therefore it is not fashionable for a Jarl to have more than a small group of active Thanes. Thanedom is a chivalric title respected and feared across Skyrim and these men are the strong pillars of duty and justice.
Housecarls are the warrior class of Nord culture and Hersir and Thanes are expected to employ them as sworn swords. To dedicate yourself to warfare means making war your profession and therefore patronage is extremely important. Housecarls sacrifice their other potential skill sets to be a honed weapon and leader in battle, so they will struggle to make their own way in Skyrim. A truly skilled soldier and captain will be recognized and will always have the opportunity to serve as an honored Housecarl.
