Speaking of Princess Margaret…
I have a thought-provoking question for all of you.
We all know how clever, witty, and beautiful Princess Margaret was, but her behavior was sometimes known to be frightfully horrendous. People commented that the late Princess was brilliant but bratty, the result of being given all she wanted her entire life. The Queen Mother, whom Margaret most resembled in personality and interest, was probably no help.
The late Queen Elizabeth would wave her hand as if to say, “What can one do?” when confronted with her little princess’ lack of discretion and demands. The Queen seemed to enjoy her daughter’s outgoing nature and talent for entertaining, and would overlook her imperiousness. Her Majesty’s eldest daughter, Princess Elizabeth, was heading down the same path of entitlement.
One story finds ‘Lilibet’ taking offense at being called a “little lady” by a kindly gentleman. Drawing herself up to full height, she says haughtily, “I am not a little lady, I’m Princess Elizabeth.”
Queen Mary quickly intervenes. “She is not a lady yet, but hopes to be one day.”
This stern admonishment from ‘Granny’, among others, set the path of the future queen on an entirely different road from her younger sister Margaret. Queen Mary knew that Elizabeth would one day head the monarchy and decided that she would establish in her granddaughter manners and a devotion to the country.
Today, Queen Elizabeth II is legendary for her cool, calm demeanor and her adherence to protocol. I feel that Queen Mary’s influence may have saved Elizabeth from having a similar fate to that of Princess Margaret. It’s true that the Princesses were not that similar in temperament, and perhaps Elizabeth would not have been that much like Margaret, but with a life full of having whatever you want, it could spoil anyone… even the Queen.
I say Queen Mary drove Elizabeth’s future to a brighter direction, and the Queen Mum let Margaret do what she wanted and in the end it cost the Princess dearly. What do you think?
