The book group is reading Philippa Gregory's The Other Queen this month. How coincidental that Prince William is now engaged to long-time girlfriend Kate Middleton.
As for the book, I feel as if I've read it before, but there's been several novels published in the past few years that cover the same subject in much the same way. At any rate, it's been difficult getting through the book and when it's time for discussion, I know I'll veer off on a tangent.
We live in modern times, but why would the 21st Century be completely different from the Elizabethan era when it comes to royalty?
From historical fiction to non-fiction, you can follow the twists and turns that were matchmaking in the day when producing an heir to the throne was critical to the kingdom's stability. What sort of intrigue might have been involved for the Middleton clan?
I wonder if there were several mothers in the nobility who wheedled invitations to certain events so that their lovely daughters could meet and attempt to sweep the prince off his feet. Did some women call in markers to get their female offspring in the same space as royalty so that their daughter might one day be the queen of England?
Back in the days of Henry VIII, it was all about political influence and favors. The family of the king's consort got all the plum positions in the royal government, along with the money and prestige that went with it.
Although not as corrupt, why wouldn't it be the same today? Will Ms. Middleton's extended family stand to benefit from the marriage? Maybe a cousin with an insurance agency would get to underwrite the fire insurance for Windsor and Balmoral Castles, no bidding required. An uncle in banking might have business thrown his way by someone hoping to get an invite to some royal party or other.
The possibilities are endless, as is the potential for speculation.
At least we won't have to talk about a book I may not finish in time for the club's next meeting.
No comments:
Post a Comment