In the complex world of royal protocol, tradition plays a huge role in dictating how members of the royal family interact with one another. Whether it’s in public or private, these formalities are deeply ingrained in royal life. One such formality is the act of bowing or curtsying, a sign of respect and acknowledgment within royal circles. For Duchess Sophie of Edinburgh, formerly known as the Countess of Wessex, these traditions were once a part of her daily life—especially when it came to Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex.
However, recent reports suggest that Duchess Sophie feels “relieved” that she no longer has to bow to Meghan Markle, and the reason behind this is quite unexpected. In this article, we will delve into the background of royal etiquette, the relationship between Duchess Sophie and Meghan Markle, and the shocking reason why bowing is no longer a requirement.
1. The Tradition of Bowing in the Royal Family
Before exploring why Duchess Sophie is now “relieved,” it’s essential to understand the tradition of bowing and curtsying within the British royal family. Bowing or curtsying is a gesture of respect, usually directed toward higher-ranking members of the family. Typically, this protocol is observed during formal events, ceremonies, or any time a royal member meets with the sovereign or another senior royal.
Royal protocol dictates that members of the family bow or curtsy to those of higher rank. For instance, Queen Elizabeth II was at the top of this hierarchy, and nearly all royals, including her children and grandchildren, would bow or curtsy to her. However, when it comes to Meghan Markle, the hierarchy is a bit more complicated. As the wife of Prince Harry, Meghan was required to receive bows from lower-ranking royals, including Duchess Sophie, before her status changed.
2. The Complicated Relationship Between Duchess Sophie and Meghan Markle
Duchess Sophie has long been considered one of the most reliable and low-profile members of the British royal family. Married to Prince Edward, Queen Elizabeth II’s youngest son, Sophie has played an essential role in supporting the Queen and the monarchy. She has always maintained a respectful and dignified relationship with other members of the family.
When Meghan Markle married Prince Harry and became the Duchess of Sussex, she joined the royal family with much fanfare. As a former actress and a self-made woman, Meghan brought a modern touch to royal life, which was initially seen as refreshing. However, over time, her relationships within the family grew strained, particularly after Meghan and Harry stepped back from their roles as senior royals in 2020.
According to reports, Duchess Sophie had extended a welcoming hand to Meghan when she first joined the family. Sophie, who herself had once been an outsider marrying into the royal family, was well-positioned to offer advice and support. However, the relationship between the two allegedly grew tense over time due to differing views on royal duties and public life.
3. Meghan Markle’s Departure from Royal Duties and the Change in Protocol
In January 2020, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made the shocking announcement that they would be stepping back from their roles as senior members of the royal family. This decision, dubbed “Megxit” by the press, was a turning point not only for Meghan and Harry but also for the entire royal family. Their decision to relocate to the United States and pursue independent careers significantly altered their standing within the royal hierarchy.
With Meghan’s departure from royal duties came a change in the protocols surrounding her. As Meghan and Harry are no longer considered working royals, they have lost certain privileges and responsibilities. This includes how other royals are expected to interact with them. For Duchess Sophie, this change meant that she was no longer required to bow or curtsy to Meghan, as Meghan’s rank within the royal family has effectively diminished.
This shift in protocol is reportedly a significant reason why Duchess Sophie feels “relieved.” No longer having to bow to Meghan Markle is a symbol of the changing dynamics within the royal family, where former obligations have been lifted.
4. The Shocking Reason Behind Duchess Sophie’s Relief
While it may seem that the shift in royal protocol is purely about tradition, the relief that Duchess Sophie feels goes beyond the formality of bowing. Sources close to the royal family suggest that Sophie’s relief stems from the tensions that arose between her and Meghan during Meghan’s time as a senior royal.
As Meghan and Harry’s approach to royal life clashed with the more traditional views held by other family members, including Sophie, the relationship reportedly became strained. Sophie, known for her dedication to the monarchy and her willingness to remain out of the spotlight, was said to have found Meghan’s more independent and media-savvy approach challenging.
The tension reached its peak after the Sussexes’ bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, where Meghan and Harry made several shocking claims about their treatment by the royal family. The interview created further division within the family, leaving some members feeling alienated by the couple’s public revelations. For Duchess Sophie, who has always prioritized loyalty to the family and the Crown, the fallout from the interview likely solidified her sense of relief at no longer being bound by formal obligations to Meghan.
5. The Impact on the Royal Family and Public Perception
The royal family has always been under the public’s watchful eye, and the relationships between its members are frequently the subject of speculation. The dynamic between Duchess Sophie and Meghan Markle, especially now that formalities like bowing are no longer required, reflects the ongoing changes within the family.
Public perception of Meghan Markle has been polarizing from the start. While she has a loyal fan base that admires her for breaking the mold and advocating for social justice, there are also critics who see her as disruptive to the royal family’s traditional values. For Duchess Sophie, her reputation as a dutiful and steadfast royal has only grown stronger over the years. The contrast between Sophie’s low-key approach and Meghan’s more high-profile public persona has contributed to the public’s interest in their relationship.
In the eyes of the public, the fact that Duchess Sophie no longer has to bow to Meghan is more than just a change in protocol—it’s a reflection of the evolving roles within the royal family. As the monarchy adjusts to the new reality post-Megxit, relationships within the family continue to shift, and the public watches closely.
FAQs:
- Why did Duchess Sophie have to bow to Meghan Markle?
Duchess Sophie was required to bow to Meghan Markle as part of royal protocol when Meghan was a senior member of the royal family. This is a traditional sign of respect within the royal hierarchy. - Why does Duchess Sophie no longer have to bow to Meghan Markle?
After Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stepped back from their roles as senior royals, their standing within the family changed. As a result, Duchess Sophie is no longer required to bow to Meghan. - Did Duchess Sophie and Meghan Markle have a good relationship?
While Duchess Sophie was reportedly welcoming to Meghan Markle when she joined the royal family, their relationship reportedly became strained over time due to differing views on royal duties and public life. - What is the significance of bowing in the royal family?
Bowing or curtsying in the royal family is a formal gesture of respect and acknowledgment, particularly toward higher-ranking members of the family. It is part of the long-standing traditions and etiquette of the monarchy. - How has public perception of Meghan Markle changed since she left royal duties?
Public perception of Meghan Markle has been polarizing. While some admire her for her independence and advocacy, others criticize her for her role in disrupting the traditional values of the royal family.
