Introduction
It's a common misconception that Meghan Markle, the former wife of Prince Harry, demanded a royal title upon marriage. In reality, she received a bestowal of titles that came with her husband's newfound status within the royal family. This article delves into the intricacies of royal titles and the public's perceptions surrounding Meghan's titles.
The Titles of Meghan Markle
Upon her marriage to Prince Harry, Meghan Markle became a member of the British royal family and was granted several titles:
Duchess of Sussex: This title was bestowed upon her by Queen Elizabeth II, with her husband Prince Harry elevated to the title of Duke of Sussex. Princess Henry/Harry: She is also known as Princess Henry/Harry, similar to Princess Michael of Kent. Countess of Dumbarton: In addition to her other titles, Meghan is the Countess of Dumbarton, another honor bestowed upon her. Baroness of Kilkeel: She is also referred to as Baroness of Kilkeel. Her Royal Highness (HRH): While she is entitled to this title, the couple agreed not to use it, as they are not considered Working Royals.Understanding Royal Titles
It's essential to understand that royal titles are not something one can demand or seek. Titles are awarded based on recommendations or by the reigning monarch themselves. The confusion around Meghan's titles, especially in the United States, stems from several factors:
Misconceptions about Royalty: Americans, in particular, tend to hold different views about royalty, often underestimating the formal and bureaucratic nature of royal titles and awards. Perception vs. Reality: There is a significant gap between the popular perception of Meghan as an American who might rise to the top of the royal hierarchy and the actual reality of her position within the British royal family. Public Relations: The royal family manages its public persona carefully, which can lead to misunderstandings and misconceptions about individual members' roles and titles.Public Perception and Jokes
The internet often reflects the popular sentiment about royal titles, including direct jabs at Meghan Markle. However, it's important to approach these with a critical eye. Here are a few examples:
"Are you being a retarded Cunt for fun or are you just an ignorant fucking cunt of a poxy fucking yank."
This type of language, while humorous on the internet, reflects a misunderstanding of royal protocol and the complex nature of the British monarchy. Another example:
"There are plenty of titles that would fit her."
Such statements reveal the oversimplified view of royal titles and their significance. Additionally, the following joke demonstrates the often absurd nature of discussing royal titles:
"He laughed so hard he fell off his throne. Then he declared a bank holiday to allow time for the merriment to settle down."
These jokes, while lighthearted, can perpetuate misunderstandings and misinformation about the royal family and its protocol.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle's titles reflect her position within the British royal family. While there may be confusion and misconceptions, understanding the official reasons behind her titles and the complex nature of the monarchy can provide a clearer perspective. The royal family, including Meghan, works to manage public perception carefully, which can sometimes lead to further misunderstandings. Ultimately, it’s important to approach discussions about royal titles with an informed, nuanced view.