The British Royal Family recently experienced a significant change in the hierarchy, with the children of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Archie and Lilibet, receiving royal titles. The decision was made following the insistence of their parents, who believed it was their children’s “birthright”.
The Buckingham Palace’s official website was quickly updated to reflect the new status of Archie and Lilibet as prince and princess, respectively. However, the manner in which this change was announced has sparked some interesting conversations.
A Tale of Two Titles
The royal announcement not only recognized the new titles for Archie and Lilibet but also bestowed a new title upon Prince Edward, who was declared the Duke of Edinburgh. As these changes came into effect, some royal observers, including Ingrid Seward, the editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine, pointed out some peculiarities in the way the announcement was made.
Despite Harry and Meghan stepping back from royal duties, they did not renounce their royal titles. Consequently, their children, Archie and Lilibet, stand sixth and seventh in line for the throne.
Initially, their children were identified on the succession chart as Master Archie Mountbatten-Windsor and Miss Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor. However, following the recent christening of Lilibet Diana, these titles were updated to Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex.
The Controversy Surrounding The Titles
The decision to confer prince and princess titles on Archie and Lilibet has left many people puzzled, especially considering Meghan’s statements in a controversial interview with Oprah in 2021.
Meghan had claimed that some royal family members did not want their children to receive royal titles, a claim that contradicted the royal protocol established by George V in 1917. However, it appears that this issue has been addressed, and now the children are recognized by their royal titles.
The Implication of Titles: A Branding Perspective?
Given Harry and Meghan’s new life in the United States, it remains uncertain how these royal titles will be utilized. Sarah Hewson, TalkTV Royal Editor, suggested that while the titles are unlikely to be used in day-to-day conversation, they could potentially have a significant impact on the brand image of the Sussexes.
A Royal Reprisal?
Amid these changes, some have speculated that Harry and Meghan’s decision to use their children’s royal titles might be a form of revenge against King Charles and Camilla. Richard Eden, a royal analyst, suggested this decision might be a response to two significant developments: the eviction of the Sussexes from Frogmore Cottage and the announcement that Camilla’s grandchildren will play a significant role in the coronation.
A New Title For Prince Edward
While the focus has been primarily on Archie and Lilibet’s new titles, it’s important to note that another significant change occurred within the Royal Family. Prince Edward, previously known as the Earl of Wessex, was given the title of Duke of Edinburgh, a decision that was announced by King Charles.
The Contrast in Announcements
Ingrid Seward pointed out a stark contrast in the manner of these announcements. While the update of Archie and Lilibet’s titles was quietly updated on the Royal Family website, Prince Edward’s ennoblement was announced in a formal statement from Buckingham Palace. This difference has led to further speculation about the royal family’s dynamics.
The Coronation Conundrum
With the upcoming coronation of King Charles, speculation is rife about whether Harry and Meghan will attend the event. There are rumors that the couple might receive a cold reception from several family members.
As we navigate these changes in the royal hierarchy