I swear the royal family gives me more drama than my last three relationships combined. So King Charles landed in Italy yesterday for what they're calling a "historic" state visit, and literally HOURS before that, his estranged son Harry touched down in the UK. Talk about awkward timing!
No one seems to know if father and son actually met up. My guess? Hard no.
Audio Summary of the Article
Why is Harry even in the UK?
Harry's back on British soil for yet another round of his seemingly endless legal battle. This time he's still fighting to get taxpayers to foot the bill for his armed security detail. The man left royal duties in 2020, moved to California, and still expects 24-hour protection when he visits? Make it make sense.
The whole security saga has already cost British taxpayers £618,622 to defend. That's not a typo. Over six hundred thousand pounds! I remember back in 2021 when this first started, my British friend Mark texted me: "We're paying for this circus while NHS nurses can barely get a raise." Poor Mark.
The Father-Son Cold War Continues...
Here's the thing that actually makes me a bit sad. Harry hasn't seen his dad in person since Charles announced his cancer diagnosis back in February. I mean, your father has cancer and you're in the same country... and still no reunion?
God. Family estrangement is brutal.
Meanwhile in Italy: Charles and Camilla Do Their Thing
While all this Harry drama unfolds, Charles and Camilla are off doing a four-day tour of Italy. The British Ambassador to Italy (Edward something... Llewellyn I think) made this statement that honestly sounds like it was written by ChatGPT: "Their visit will strengthen the closeness between our nations. Their love for things Italians cherish — culture, food, heritage — resonate very deeply here."
I spent 3 weeks in Rome last summer and can confirm that Italians do indeed cherish food. Revolutionary insight there, Mr. Ambassador.
Remember when the royals were boring?
Back in 2018, I wrote a piece about how the younger royals were "modernizing the monarchy." Well, I feel stupid now. What we've got instead is a family that barely speaks to each other while conducting business as usual. Harry's fighting in court (again) starting today, though it's unclear if he'll actually show up or just let his lawyers handle it.
The whole thing reminds me of that awkward Thanksgiving when my uncle announced he was moving to Florida and my aunt pretended not to hear him... for three hours.
Listen. I'm not taking sides here. But there's something deeply uncomfortable about watching this family drama play out on the world stage while everyone pretends it's just business as usual.
Charles and Camilla will spend the next four days smiling for cameras and eating pasta. Harry will fight with government lawyers. And the rest of us will keep watching this slow-motion car crash of a family situation like it's entertainment.
Which I guess it is.
What's the endgame here?
Nobody seems to know. The royals are carrying on with their royal duties. Harry and Meghan are doing... whatever it is they do in California. And teh divide just keeps growing.
My editor bet me $20 that Harry and Charles wouldn't meet during this UK visit. I'm not taking that bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the roles of royalty in modern society?
In modern society, royal families often serve as symbols of national identity and continuity. They may engage in charitable activities, represent their countries at diplomatic events, and participate in cultural ceremonies, although their political power is often limited.
How does one become a member of royalty?
Membership in royalty is typically hereditary, passed down through bloodlines. In some cases, individuals may marry into royal families, gaining titles and privileges associated with their spouse's lineage.
How do different cultures view royalty?
Different cultures have varied views on royalty, often shaped by history, religion, and societal norms. In some cultures, royalty is revered and seen as divine, while in others, it may be viewed with skepticism or as outdated.
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- In Sweden, the monarchy has been a constitutional institution since 1809, with King Carl XVI Gustaf serving since 1973.
- The royal family of Japan is the oldest continuing hereditary monarchy in the world, with a history that dates back over 1,500 years.
- According to surveys, 60% of people in Canada support maintaining the monarchy as part of their national identity.
- Approximately 43 monarchies currently exist around the world, with varying degrees of power and influence.
- The global fascination with royal families is evident, as books, films, and documentaries about them frequently top bestseller lists and viewership ratings.
- The British Royal Family, one of the most recognized royal families, has an estimated annual expenditure of around £100 million.
- In Thailand, the monarchy is deeply respected, with laws that prohibit criticism of the royal family, making it one of the strictest in the world regarding royal defamation.
- Public engagements and charitable work by royal family members have been shown to improve public perceptions of the monarchy, as seen in various surveys across Europe.
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How To Learn About Royal Etiquette
Learning about royal etiquette is essential for understanding the traditions and protocols associated with royalty. Start by researching the specific customs and rules that govern royal behavior in different cultures, as these can vary significantly. Key aspects include proper greetings, dress codes, and dining manners. Consider attending workshops or seminars that focus on etiquette, as they often provide practical guidance. Reading books or articles on the subject can also offer insights into the nuances of royal etiquette. Observing royal events and noting the behavior of royal family members can help reinforce your understanding of these important social norms.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://hellofaread.com/royalty/prince-andrew-accuser-quietly-slips-out-hospital-back-door-after-dramatic-dying-claims
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