As King Charles' first year of reign draws to a close, the controversy and disagreement sparked by the controversial Prince Harry and Meghan Markle biography "Endgame" continues to simmer. However, one royal historian believes that the wisest thing for the monarch is to stay away from the ongoing quarrel and let his actions speak louder than words.
Marlene Koenig, an expert on British and European royalty, said Charles would do well to avoid further involvement in the problems raised by Omid Scobie and Caroline Durand's book, which chronicles Prince Harry and Meghan's departure from the royal front.
In an interview with the Daily Express, Koenig said: "This year's turmoil in the royal family is unlikely. Scobie's book received more attention than he needed. It didn't get good reviews and it wasn't like a bestseller. It didn't make the New York Times' non-bestseller list. ”
While Finding Freedom made headlines when it was released in 2020 and reignited controversy in this year's revision, Koenig noted that its lasting impact or critical acclaim has been minimal. Therefore, she advised the king and members of the royal family to stop getting involved in the ongoing controversy over her claims and allegations.
The royal historian advises: "The best thing for the king and the royal family to do is to distance themselves from the controversy. By moving beyond constant gossip and criticism, Charles can speak with his actions as a monarch. ”
After 12 months at the helm of the royal family, there is evidence that Charles's royal actions have resonated strongly with the British public. Wherever he is active, there will be large crowds of people who will come out to cheer for their new monarch.
"Every time I go to a public event, there is a large crowd cheering for the king," Koenig said. The most watched show in the UK in 2023 is "Coronation", which is not a football game, but a coronation. It's very convincing. As king, he was not derelict in his duties. ”
Indeed, the pomp, ceremony and tradition of Charles' coronation in May 2023 brought the entire country together and highlighted the enduring significance of the monarchy. More than 27 million viewers tuned in to watch the show, which confirmed that the glamour and national pride that comes with royal events is in demand by the British public.
After the death of his beloved mother, Elizabeth II, Charles underwent a major transition of power in his first year on the throne. But according to Koenig, through courage and grace, he has proven that he is more than up to the challenge.
The royal historian commented: "He started his new business, and most of the people of his age are already retired." The first year was the first year of the transition to the throne – from heir to throne – and all the official events took place early in the succession, while preparing for the grief of losing a mother. ”
Now that the coronation ceremony has taken place, Charles can begin the monarch's daily life, including reading documents in the 'red box', meeting with the prime minister, attending events, and more. ”
Looking ahead to 2024, Koenig expects "business as usual" for the multitasking king. When he finds his royal footing, Charles will focus on taking his constitutional duties seriously across the country.
"I am confident that the King will continue to carry out his duties – whether it is meeting with the Prime Minister, presiding over the opening of Parliament, or carrying out his duties with humor, wisdom and respect," she said. ”
He was intuitive and helped him with the king's day-to-day affairs – and most importantly, his wife was by his side. ”
Indeed, now that Camilla proudly stands by his side as queen, Charles seems to have gained tremendous strength and stability from his devoted wife of 17 years. Even though they are 76 and 75 years old, they still show extraordinary resilience and passion for their important roles.
Koenig summed it up appreciatively: "Charles and Queen Camilla are still amazingly energetic at their age. While controversy may continue, the best revenge is to live well – and that's exactly what our longest-reigning heir and his spouse intend to do. ”
By continuing to focus on being a dignified, dutiful, and dedicated head of state, Charles can make his exemplary actions louder than any words. Far from the constant spectacle and debate, he became a quiet but resonant British leader who needed to lead the monarchy into a new era with wisdom, grace and determination.