The experiences of Princess Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and the late Duchess of Windsor, Wallis Simpson, within the British Royal Family have garnered significant attention and raised questions about the treatment they received. Both women, hailing from America, were divorcees and people of color, and they faced substantial challenges and prejudice during their time as royal figures. This essay aims to explore the reasons behind the mistreatment endured by both Princess Meghan and Princess Wallis Simpson, ultimately leading to their departure from the Royal Family.
To understand the mistreatment faced by Princess Meghan and Princess Wallis Simpson, it is crucial to examine the historical context in which their experiences unfolded. During the early 20th century, when Wallis Simpson gained notoriety, British society was deeply rooted in tradition and adherence to conservative norms. Divorce was frowned upon, particularly within the Royal Family, and Wallis Simpson's previous marriages cast a shadow on her suitability to be a royal consort. Furthermore, her American origins and unconventional persona clashed with the expectations placed upon members of the British monarchy.
Fast-forward to the 21st century, Princess Meghan entered the picture amidst a seemingly more progressive society. However, despite the advancements in social equality, racial prejudice still persisted. As an American woman of mixed heritage, she represented a departure from the traditional image of a British royal, which ignited both overt and subtle racism from certain sections of the media and the public. The unrelenting scrutiny and invasion of privacy further exacerbated the challenges faced by Princess Meghan.
The role of the media and public perception cannot be understated when discussing the treatment of Princess Meghan and Princess Wallis Simpson. In Wallis Simpson's case, her relationship with King Edward VIII, which led to his abdication, drew intense media scrutiny. The British press played a significant role in vilifying Simpson, portraying her as a social climber and opportunist. The establishment, fearful of the potential damage to the monarchy, actively worked against her, leading to a climate of hostility and exclusion.
Similarly, Princess Meghan faced relentless media coverage, marked by a consistent negative narrative. The tabloid press often perpetuated stereotypes, fostering racist tropes and biased stories about her character and intentions. The intrusion into her personal life and unwarranted criticism resulted in immense emotional distress. The influence of media sensationalism on public perception cannot be underestimated, as it shaped public opinion and contributed to an environment hostile to both women.
In addition to media influence, the institutional prejudices and entrenched traditions within the British Royal Family played a significant role in the mistreatment of both Princess Meghan and Princess Wallis Simpson. The monarchy has a long history of conforming to conservative standards, and marrying a divorcee was deemed inappropriate until relatively recent times.
In Wallis Simpson's case, the Royal Family and its advisors held concerns about the potential negative impact of her previous divorces and her unconventional character on the monarchy's image. The reluctance to accept her as part of the institution contributed to her isolation and perceived mistreatment.
Princess Meghan faced similar challenges. Her mixed heritage and background diverged from the typical royal spouse. The deeply ingrained traditions and protocols within the Royal Family created barriers and limited her ability to navigate the institution smoothly. The lack of institutional support she received during her tenure fueled feelings of isolation and led to her and Prince Harry's decision to step back as senior royals.
The treatment of both Princess Meghan and Princess Wallis Simpson sheds light on the deep-rooted biases within British society and the monarchy itself. The combination of media sensationalism, public perception, and institutional prejudices created a toxic environment that made it challenging for these women to fulfill their roles as members of the Royal Family. The mistreatment they endured ultimately led to their decisions to distance themselves from the institution.
It is crucial for society to reflect on these experiences and work towards fostering a more inclusive and accepting environment. By addressing systemic biases and confronting prejudice head-on, we can hope to create a world where individuals, regardless of their background, can be treated with fairness, respect, and dignity.
