This is the 4th highest “rank” in Peerage. First created in 1444, it is debated that the title is MUCH older (and may go back to The Carolingian Empire as a “Vice-Comites”). A Viscount was considered a “Deputy” to a Count. They were not originally given any “specific” authority (but would later evolve into the Noble-Class). The wife of a Viscount is referred to as a “Viscountess”. The title is still seen in some Countries even today.