What is monarchy?

Monarchy is a form of government in which a country or entity is usually ruled or controlled by an individual who normally rules for life or until abdication and monarch is the person who heads a monarchy.Monarchs may be autocrats (absolute monarchy) or may be ceremonial heads of state who exercise little or no power or only reserve power, with actual authority vested in a parliament or other body (constitutional monarchy).Monarchs have various titles — king or queen, prince or princess,emperor or empres,or duke or grand duke.Many monarchs are distinguished by titles and styles. They often take part in certain ceremonies, such as a coronation.For example the United Kingdom monarchy is the oldest form of government.The British monarchy is known as a constitutional monarchy. This means that, while The Sovereign is Head of State, the ability to make and pass legislation resides with an elected Parliament.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarch
http://www.royal.gov.uk/Home.aspx