Introduction

The complex dynamics within the British Royal Family, especially the relationship between Princess Margaret and Princess Diana, have been a topic of considerable interest, particularly since the tragic deaths of both princesses. Despite their shared royal lineage, their interactions were far from harmonious, largely due to the unique personalities and public perceptions surrounding them. This article explores the underlying reasons behind Margaret's disapproval of Diana and the historical context of their relationship.

Historical Context and Initial Tensions

Princess Margaret’s attitude towards Princess Diana evolved over time, reflecting the changing dynamics within the royal family and public opinion. In the early years, Margaret held a general attitude of indifference towards her relations, preferring to maintain close friendships outside the family. However, the 1990s saw a significant shift in Margaret's stance, primarily due to Diana's outspoken nature and the ensuing scandals.

The royal tradition of preserving family unity and respect for one another was a key factor in their early interactions. Margaret, as a younger and more accomplished princess in the 1950s and 1960s, naturally held a position of reverence for her sister Elizabeth, and this was somewhat extended to her nephew Charles and his wife Diana. However, as Diana became a more prominent figure and began to draw the public’s attention, Margaret's perception of her changed.

The Emergence of Dislike

The relationship between Margaret and Diana took a turn for the worse in the 1990s, particularly after the botched 1981 divorce negotiations and the subsequent public revelations. Margaret's dislike for Diana was not simply rooted in personal animosity; it was fueled by a public perception of Diana as a ‘loose canon’ who was bringing scandal to the royal family. Her actions, which went against the traditional image of the royal figure, created a rift between the two.

It is important to note that much of the narrative surrounding Margaret and Diana's relationship, as portrayed in The Crown, is fabricated. The show, while providing an engaging storyline, often distorts historical facts to maintain viewer interest, which can lead to a misconception of the true nature of their interactions.

Narcissism and Personal Rivalry

Princess Margaret's dislike of Diana is also attributed to a mix of personal rivalry and the fact that Diana was a younger, more attractive, and more popular figure. Margaret, often described as a bitter and nasty drunk, resented the public adoration and success that Diana enjoyed. Diana’s beauty and charm, coupled with her ability to connect with the public, made her a formidable figure whom Margaret found it difficult to respect or tolerate.

Margaret's relationship with Sarah, Duchess of York, was especially strained. The Duchess's position as the wife of Charles’s heir likely exacerbated Margaret’s feelings towards Diana, given the Duchess’s more glamorous and popular persona.

The Queen and Diana’s Relationship

While Princess Margaret held a disdain for Diana, it is interesting to note the relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and Diana. Despite their differences, the Queen maintained a sense of respect and responsibility towards her role as the mother of the future King. The Queen's approval of public memorials for Diana, initiated by her grandsons William and Harry, indicates a more nuanced and supportive attitude compared to Margaret's.

The Queen’s household and the establishment fundamentally differed in their opinions regarding Diana. Their struggle to cope with Diana's unprecedented popularity and public influence was evident. The Queen's careful approach to public displays of emotion and her eventual reconditioning of the monarchy to be more in tune with modern public sentiment are noteworthy.

Conclusion

The relationship between Princess Margaret and Princess Diana remains a fascinating and complex subject, reflecting the changing roles of royal figures in the public eye. Margaret’s envy and disdain for Diana stemmed from a combination of personal rivalry, emotional baggage, and the evolving nature of the royal family's public image. While both princesses have since passed, their legacy and interactions continue to shape public discourse and understanding of the British monarchy.