The British monarchy, with its centuries-old traditions and intricate relationships, has always been a subject of global fascination. A recent revelation by royal biographer Andrew Morton has added another layer to the complex tapestry of royal dynamics. In his new book, Morton delves into the strained relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and her eldest son, King Charles, a rift that was deepened by Charles' controversial relationship with Queen Camilla.
Before her passing in late 2022, Queen Elizabeth II had seemingly mended fences with her heir, King Charles. However, Morton's account paints a picture of years of tension between the mother and son, primarily due to Charles' scandalous love triangle involving Princess Diana and Queen Camilla. While Charles and Camilla's romance predates his marriage to Diana, their affair during his tumultuous marriage to the "People's Princess" became a significant point of contention within the royal family.
According to Morton, the affair did not sit well with Queen Elizabeth II. "The queen and her advisers, her courtiers, her private secretary - they all believed that Prince Charles should give up Camilla," Morton revealed. The consensus was that while Charles could harbor feelings for Camilla, he needed to distance himself from her, given the damage their relationship was causing to the monarchy's image.
Morton further elaborated, "The presence of Camilla in Charles' life did cause a rift between the queen and her eldest son, one which took several years to patch up." The reconciliation between the two royals required intervention from external figures, including the Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey. Carey reportedly vouched for Camilla's dedication and love for Charles, helping to bridge the divide between the monarch and her heir.
In a testament to the eventual acceptance of Camilla within the royal fold, Queen Elizabeth II, before her demise, expressed her wish for Camilla to be recognized with a special title. "When, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me; and it is my sincere wish that, when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service," the Queen had stated.
Initially, it was believed that Camilla would be referred to as "Princess Consort." However, ahead of Charles' coronation in May, the title "Consort" was dropped, paving the way for the official recognition of "Queen Camilla."
As the British monarchy continues to evolve and adapt, the intricate relationships within its corridors remain a subject of intrigue and speculation, offering a glimpse into the challenges of balancing personal emotions with the weight of the crown.
