Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has been a polarizing figure since joining the British royal family. Despite publicly sharing her struggles with discrimination, insults, and media scrutiny, many British people hold her responsible for the challenges she has faced. This perception, while contentious, can be traced to various cultural, social, and historical factors.
The British monarchy is steeped in tradition, with members expected to fulfill specific roles and maintain a sense of stoic duty. Meghan, as an outsider, represented a departure from this established norm. Coming from a biracial, American, and Hollywood background, her entry into the royal family was both celebrated and criticized. While many saw her as a symbol of modernity and inclusion, others viewed her as incompatible with the institution's traditional image.
Her openness about mental health struggles and the systemic racism she endured challenged the stiff-upper-lip culture many Britons value in their royals. Critics argued that her willingness to speak out publicly about such issues contradicted the discretion typically expected of the monarchy, fueling the belief that she brought these troubles upon herself.
The British tabloid media has played a significant role in shaping negative perceptions of Meghan. Sensational headlines and comparisons to Kate Middleton, often with racial undertones, influenced public opinion. Stories portraying Meghan as "demanding," "divisive," or a "rule-breaker" often painted her in a less favorable light.
For many readers, these narratives solidified the idea that Meghan’s struggles were self-inflicted. Her decision to leave the royal family with Prince Harry and their subsequent interviews, particularly the bombshell Oprah Winfrey interview, were seen by some as betrayals of the monarchy. The public backlash was rooted in a sense of loyalty to the institution, with Meghan often scapegoated for the couple's choices.
The monarchy symbolizes continuity for many Britons, and any perceived disruption is met with resistance. Meghan’s presence—and the couple's exit—represented a challenge to the status quo. This resistance to change is often rooted in deep-seated cultural conservatism, where figures like Meghan are viewed with skepticism.
The Duchess's activism and progressive views, while celebrated globally, sometimes clashed with the reserved and apolitical stance traditionally maintained by the royal family. Her outspokenness on issues such as racial inequality and feminism may have resonated with younger generations but alienated older, more conservative audiences.
Blaming Meghan for the discrimination and insults she endured reflects a larger societal tendency to victimize the marginalized. Instead of addressing systemic issues like racism or the invasive nature of the British press, critics often deflect responsibility onto Meghan herself.
Ultimately, the blame attributed to Meghan is rooted in a combination of traditionalism, media influence, and cultural resistance to change. While her story highlights significant issues within the monarchy and society, it also underscores the complexity of public perception. Meghan remains a lightning rod for debates about race, tradition, and the future of the British royal family.
