Knowing my British roots, which are still strong, if somewhat stretched after 40 years in USA, several people kindly offered their condolences after Queen Elizabeth’s recent passing and asked for my comments about the monarchy. That has caused me to examine my mixed feelings about the institution. Maybe writing about it will help.
I should declare two biases that might affect my opinion. Firstly, I think that having a monarchy (whatever my opinion of the monarch) perpetuates the class structure which still permeates British life. Lords, ladies and other hereditary titles and awards seem anachronistic in the modern world. Secondly, I cannot abide ostentatious behavior. Maybe this derives from my Quaker schooling that encourages humility. However, that concern is probably misplaced in this context. The marvelous pageantry of the Queens passing was our heart-felt celebration of her, not her bragging about it.
No one has, or can have, anything but praise for Queen Elizabeth’s exemplary lifelong devotion to the position that came to her unexpectedly. Without question she has been an invaluable constant during a long period of extraordinary change in Britain and the world. The unanimous outpouring of love and gratitude after her passing is the best testament to her. But one person does not define the monarchy nor guarantee its continuing success. The Queen was respected for her obvious lifelong probity, a quality that several other family members have been challenged to emulate. Can we see them as examples for our children?
Our second concern (I say “our” since it has been reiterated repeatedly by all commentators) is whether Charles can manage the traditional and essential “hands-off” approach. You will remember that was established in the Magna Carta at Runnymede on my birthday in 1215. He is well known for speaking out strongly for many causes. Can he “reign” himself in now that his position has changed completely? He has said so several times, and time will tell. I recommend a marvelous 2017 movie “King Charles III” which explores the consequences if he cannot step back.
And yet, do we want him to swallow his tongue completely? He has been an important voice in the climate crisis, which can use more volume. Perhaps he will have more leeway as leader of the Commonwealth. That is another institution about which many have mixed feelings, not least Australia which voted (55%) to keep the monarchy in 1999. Another vote is likely before long.
Our new king is obviously highly intelligent and fully aware of the enormous challenge he faces, how to succeed the most popular public figure of the last 50 years. We wish him well, hoping that he can design and fill a successful role while loosening some coattails of privilege.
I update these ramblings shortly after the visit of King Charles and Camilla to USA. That must have been tough but it appears that he handled it very well and was praised by would-be king Donald despite dropping some bon mots about democracy, NATO and the rule of law.
So, a good start.