The Real Relationship Between Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret: Beyond The Crown’s Dramatization

The relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and her younger sister Princess Margaret remains one of the most intriguing and complex within the British royal family. As the show The Crown highlights on Netflix, their bond is depicted in various ways, but does it accurately represent the real dynamics between these sisters? Let's explore their relationship in more detail.

Childhood Bond

As children, Elizabeth and Margaret shared a strong and enduring bond. Their close relationship during their formative years was characterized by playfulness, trust, and mutual confidences. They often spent time together, playing and sharing their thoughts and feelings.

Differences in Roles

As Elizabeth ascended to the throne as the elder sister and future Queen, the duo's relationship took a different turn. Elizabeth's sense of duty and responsibility often contrasted with Margaret's more rebellious and adventurous spirit. This stark difference in lifestyle and approach created underlying tensions between them, especially as their lives took divergent paths. Margaret's romantic relationships, particularly her connection with Peter Townsend, a divorced man, further strained their relationship.

Elizabeth's decision to prioritize her royal duties and the expectations placed upon her as the Queen brought Margaret to feel constrained. The pressure to conform to societal norms and the limitations imposed on her personal life contrasted with Elizabeth's ability to navigate these expectations with relative ease.

Support and Loyalty

Despite the differences, Elizabeth's loyalty to Margaret remained unwavering throughout her life. Elizabeth often supported her sister during challenging times. For instance, during Margaret's tumultuous marriage to Anthony Armstrong-Jones and her battles with mental health, her sister was a constant source of support.

Public Perception vs. Reality

While The Crown offers a dramatized and often entertaining portrayal of their relationship, it also captures some of the essence of their bond. Affection and loyalty are indeed present in their bond, intermingled with duty and sacrifice. However, the nuances and complexities of their relationship are often lost in the dramatization.

Despite the dramatic liberties taken for narrative purposes, the real-life relationship between the two was marked by deeper and more personal interactions than what is typically showcased on screen.

Latter Years

In their later years, Elizabeth and Margaret reportedly grew closer again. Elizabeth showed more understanding and compassion towards Margaret's struggles, indicating a new level of mutual support and familial love.

In summary, while The Crown offers a dramatized version of their relationship, it does reflect the real complexities of their bond. This includes the love and challenges they faced as sisters within the royal family, highlighting the balance between personal affection and the weight of royal responsibilities.