Was Prince Harry Cut Out for Life as a Member of the British Royal Family?

The question of whether Prince Harry was destined to be a member of the British royal family is fraught with complexities, particularly when considering the changes following his marriage to Meghan Markle. While Prince Harry and his family remain part of the royal household, their roles have significantly altered. They are now retired from active royal duties, with a focus on personal and philanthropic endeavors rather than engagements on behalf of The Queen.

The Controversy Surrounding Prince Harry's Paternity

One of the most intriguing aspects of Prince Harry's early life involves questions about his biological father. Some sources, such as William and Kate - A Royal Love Story by Christopher Andersen, suggest that Princess Diana may have met James Hewitt after the birth of Prince William but before the birth of Prince Harry. This information sets the stage for a confusing legacy that has been the subject of much speculation and media scrutiny.

Prince Harry's Journey from Enthusiasm to Discontent

Despite initial enthusiasm, it is clear that Prince Harry's desire to leave the royal family was significant. Some royal writers and critics argue that Harry has always harbored a deep-seated wish to break away from his royal duties, particularly in light of his connection to Meghan Markle. Their union provided him with a pathway to step back from the public eye, effectively ending his tenure as a senior working royal.

The Role of Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle's presence in the royal family destabilized many of the traditional dynamics and hierarchies that previously existed. Her dissatisfaction and preference for a more active role were evident early on. Prior to her marriage, Catherine (Duchess of Cambridge) was indeed considered a higher rank and was often given more significant engagements and projects. Meghan's struggle to adapt to her new role underscores the inherent complexity of royal life. She often acted in a manner that was perceived as unequal and disrespectful towards her staff, treating them as if she were a Hollywood diva.

Jealousy and Inequity

Meghan's jealousy of Catherine and her position within the royal family was palpable. This envy led to a rift between her and the rest of the royal family. Catherine and Prince William have consistently upheld a paternal and respectful relationship with their staff, prioritizing their well-being and treatment. This stark contrast with Meghan's approach contributed to a very different dynamic within the family. Catherine had to intervene in several situations, asserting her authority and highlighting the inequalities within the household.

Public Criticism and Fallout

The palace faced intense public and media criticism, particularly from Meghan's father. His public chastisement of Meghan and Prince Harry in interviews with various media outlets, including The Daily Mail, was not uncommon. His comments, such as those in an interview with The Daily Mail, resonated with many readers, reinforcing the notion that royal life comes with strict hierarchies and expectations that are not always met by all members of the family.

Conclusion

The question of whether Prince Harry was cut out for life as a member of the British royal family is multifaceted and open to interpretation. While he continues to hold a place within the royal household, it is clear that his relationship with the family and his role within it have been significantly altered by the presence of Meghan Markle. The role of the royal family is a unique and sometimes challenging one, with strict rules and expectations. The fallout with Meghan Markle and the public critique only highlight the complexity and pressures involved in such a high-profile and revered position.

Keywords: Prince Harry, Royal Family, Meghan Markle

Thumbnails for social media and search engines:

Thumbnail 1: A photo of Prince Harry with his wife, Meghan Markle, during one of their early engagements. This image can be captioned: "Prince Harry's journey with Meghan Markle as part of the British Royal Family."

Thumbnail 2: A contrasting image of Catherine and Prince William with their staff, emphasizing their supportive and respectful relationship. Caption: "Catherine and Prince William's treatment of their staff represents the traditional royal family dynamic."

Thumbnail 3: An image of Prince Harry alone, possibly from a modern engagement or event, conveying a sense of his current solo pursuits. Caption: "Prince Harry's retirement from royal engagements and focus on philanthropy."