The Complex Relationship Between Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret
The relationship between the Queen, Elizabeth II, and her younger sister, Princess Margaret, has been the subject of many discussions and speculations. This dynamic duo, members of the British Royal Family, had a complex bond that fluctuated between closeness and distance.
Early Closeness and Childhood Years
During their childhood, Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret had a very close and loving relationship. As the older sister, Queen Elizabeth (nee Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon) was somewhat maternal towards Margaret, despite being several years older.
Princess Margaret, who was often described as pretty, willful, and talented, especially on the piano, provided a close confidant to her sister. They shared countless memories and indeed fought like all close siblings. However, their bond was strong enough to see them through such conflicts, with Margaret always standing by her sister in difficult times. This support and loyalty formed a significant part of their relationship.
Strain in their Relationship
As they grew older, the relationship between Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret became more complicated. After the famous separation of Princess Margaret and Peter Townsend, Princess Margaret's dissatisfaction with the outcome of the situation led to a distant relationship with her mother. Queen Elizabeth dealt with the unpleasantness by ignoring it, a strategy she often used to manage her feelings and maintain a certain decorum and dignity.
One significant moment was when Queen Elizabeth was seen to tear up watching Princess Charlotte play the piano. This reaction provoked thoughts of how it might recall the days when Princess Margaret was a young child, playing the piano herself. This incident highlighted the emotional connection and memories that bound the two sisters, despite the distance that had developed.
Denial and Conflict
The most notable incident in their relationship involved Princess Margaret's desire to marry Peter Townsend. As the Queen, it was Queen Elizabeth's role to deny Princess Margaret's permission to marry Peter Townsend. This decision, while a matter of duty, undoubtedly caused Queen Elizabeth significant distress, especially as a sister. Yet, both Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth deeply loved each other, even as their characters and roles differed.
Normal and Healthy Family Dynamics
Despite the complications, Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret's relationship was also a representation of the complex yet genuine dynamics within a royal family. Princess Margaret, while spoiled and envious of her sister at times, had the admiration and support of her parents, the King and Queen. Both Elizabeth and Margaret were a normal, if exceptionally privileged, family.
Their bond, marked by moments of closeness and distance, offers a fascinating look into the personal lives of figures usually surrounded by duty and public scrutiny.