Bagehot: No more royal weddings | The Economist
I think that is what's happening. William and Kate want to live their own life. They may never move to Buckingham Palace. There may never be another royal wedding of such pagaentry. When Elizabeth goes, the monarchy will not be the same. Queen Elizabeth has lived in the royal palace for over 60 years. No one wants her to change, nor expects her to change. Charles was too well trained to make change happen. He will want his moment in the golden glow, will aspire to be as much a monarch as his mother.
But William has taken a different path. He has chosen a career, married a commoner and is the product of a broken family and a great loss. He may be the one to transition the monarchy to the museums where it belongs.
That is why it felt so important and significant to watch this particular royal pageant, wedding as theater. Because their lives will be about their loving relationship and profound friendship, not their duties. At least for now. Diana was married at 19 to a near stranger who was in love with another married woman. She had so many huge obstacles. This couple starts on firm ground and will be rewriting the rules.
No doubt the royals are a wonderful tourist attraction for the UK, but it is time to relegate them away from the last vestiges of governing. William may be just the one to take that role.
Either he will transform what it means to be royal or the burden of birth will transform him. Either way will be a fascinating journey.
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