Kate Middleton has challenged Prince Harry's assertion about the expectations placed on women in the royal family.
During his Netflix documentary series in 2022, Prince Harry suggested that there is a tendency within the family, especially among men, to marry individuals who conform to a predetermined mold rather than following their hearts.
Referring to his own marriage to Meghan Markle, he remarked, "I think for so many people in the family, especially obviously the men, there can be a temptation or an urge to marry someone who would fit the mould as opposed to somebody who you perhaps are destined to be with."
Disagreeing with the implication that Prince William married her because she fit this mold, royal author Daniela Elser argued, "The wild, weird events of 2024 so far have proven the extent to which Kate cannot be written off as some mould-fitting docile popsy."
Elser pointed out Kate's recent absence from the public eye during her health crisis, highlighting her refusal to prioritize royal duties over personal well-being, a departure from centuries-old tradition.
She noted that historically, women marrying into the royal family were expected to suppress their own needs and desires for the greater good of the monarchy. However, Kate has prioritized herself and her children over the institution, challenging this traditional expectation.
Furthermore, Kate has demonstrated her refusal to conform to expectations in various ways, such as choosing a modest family home and challenging the tradition of sending her children to co-ed schools.
In conclusion, Elser asserted that Kate has charted her own path with confidence and independence, defying any attempt to pigeonhole her. She suggested that Prince Harry's remarks indirectly disparaged both Kate and William, but emphasized that Kate has defied any attempts to diminish her significance.
