Meghan Markle and Prince Harry: Royale Dreams vs Reality
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's decision to step back from their royal duties was a complex one that involved a significant clash between their personal preferences and the traditional expectations of the royal family. Was their desire to leave the royal life a genuine one, or were there deeper motivations at play?
Did They Really Not Want to Be Royals?
At first glance, it seemed as though Meghan and Harry were considering stepping away from their royal responsibilities because they found the experience overwhelming and confining. Harry, with his background as a military serviceman, and Meghan, with her career in acting, likely had very different expectations from royal life. They may not have fully understood the intricacies of royal customs and the public scrutiny that comes with it.
As commentators suggested, Harry particularly struggled with the persona he was expected to maintain, while Meghan, knowing what it meant to be a public figure, could not convey this effectively to those around her. The phrase 'sadistic stodgy idiots' is a clear indication of their frustration with certain members of the royal family who seemed more interested in pushing their personal boundaries than supporting the couple.
Seeking Modified Roles
Neither Meghan nor Harry completely rejected royal life but sought a modified role that allowed them to balance their royal duties with their desire for financial independence and privacy. They realized that the strict protocols and public scrutiny left them with little room for personal life and independence. Their decision to step back from the royal duties was a means to regain some control over their own lives.
Step back, not no steps back, but a modified role - Harry wanted to be the same but he was never allowed to and this was the tipping point that overshadowed the positive aspects this role had to offer. After all, the stress of being a royal and the constant scrutiny can be overwhelming, especially when it starts affecting your family life and personal relationships.
Avoiding Competition
Another factor in their decision was to avoid the competition that is often present within the royal family. They felt that Prince William and Princess Catherine had different life goals and paths, making it difficult for them to compete with their siblings. Moreover, the presence of Prince William and Princess Catherine already had a strong presence in the public eye, making it harder for their children to stand out.
Keeping Their Titles
Despite claims that they wanted to live a life away from the royal family, Meghan and Harry have continued to leverage their royal titles for financial and media gains. They still use their HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) titles, which suggests they still hold some value in the public and media's eyes. This has led to accusations that they are merely using their royal status for personal benefit.
Since stepping back, they have appeared in interviews and made media appearances, including the controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey. Additionally, Harry allegedly faced financial difficulties when his father, the Duke of Sussex, cut him off from access to royal funds. This highlights the complexity of their situation and the persistent media focus on their every move.
Why the Subtle Ambivalence
Given their continued use of royal titles and financial means, it is clear that Meghan and Harry still benefit from their royal status. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II revoked their HRH titles but allowed them to retain their Duke and Duchess status, a benefit they have not shied away from. They have continued to parade around the world, trading on these titles for public recognition and financial advantage.
The repetition of rumors about their attempts to make people call them HRH, even though they are not allowed to, further suggests that their claims of stepping away from royal life are not entirely sincere. It is evident that they still see value in their royal titles and the privileges they bring.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's decision to step back from their royal duties was a nuanced one, driven by a desire for privacy, financial independence, and a sense of control over their lives. However, their continued use of royal titles and financial leverage implies that they are still highly invested in their royal status. This reality underscores the complex and often misunderstood nature of their decision and the rich tapestry of motivations behind it.