The Evolution of Meghan Markle's Title and Status

The international media has widely reported that Meghan Markle no longer uses the title "Duchess of Sussex" and refers to herself as "the Duchess" when introduced. This shift in nomenclature is more than a mere title change; it reflects the complex evolution of Meghan Markle's status and her relationship with the British monarchy. This article delves into the reasons behind this change, the implications, and the broader context of her departure from her role as a working royal.

Why Meghan Markle No Longer Uses "Duchess of Sussex"

One of the key factors that led to this change is the couple's decision to step back from their roles as working royals. In 2020, the relationship between Meghan Markle, Prince Harry and the British monarchy faced a significant strain. They were asked, and later informed, not to use the style "Royal Highness" (HRH) anymore. While they haven't been formally stripped of this title, the intention was clear: they were making a deliberate shift towards prioritizing their personal agenda over their official royal duties.

The change was not only about maintain boundaries but also about clarity. When Harry and Meghan embarked on a new path, including humanitarian work, charity, and personal interests, it was essential for the public to understand that their actions were not representative of the crown. The title "Duchess of Sussex" was closely tied to their official royal status. Once they stepped back, they moved away from the official royal narrative and hence, ceased using titles that associated them with the crown.

Stripping of Formal Titles Post-Sandringham Summit

The decision to strip Harry and Meghan of certain formal titles came after the Sandringham Summit in 2020, where the couple had a decisive meeting with Queen Elizabeth II. As a result, the sovereign made the groundbreaking decision to limit the use of the "Royal Highness" style to working royals. This was a significant change that had been unheard of in centuries of tradition. The queen's prerogative to make this change emphasized the evolving nature of the monarchy in the 21st century.

Part of the agreement following the summit was that Harry and Meghan agreed not to use their titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex on commercial endeavors, such as selling products on the internet. While they swiftly began to adhere to these terms, they faced challenges when they attempted to reintroduce these titles commercially after their departure from official royal roles. Kensington Palace had to intervene to ensure that the couple did not violate the terms of their agreement, further highlighting the complexities of their situation.

Insistence on the Title "Duchess" and Public Perception

Amidst these changes, Meghan Markle still insists on being referred to as "the Duchess" in certain situations. Her preference for this title, especially when introduced or giving speeches, reflects her personal attachment to the title and the extensive work she invested in promoting the cause of the "Duchess of Sussex" advocacy group. While this insistence on the title may be seen as frustrating by some, it underscores her desire to stay connected to her former royal identity and to maintain the impact of her public image.

It's worth noting that while the royal family is certainly affected by the changing attitudes and roles of modern royals, the public's awareness of royal lineage remains strong. People are well aware that Prince Harry is the son of King Charles III, and his children have been given royal titles. However, the couple's step-back was an unprecedented move that blurred the line between personal and royal identity.

In conclusion, the evolution of Meghan Markle's title and status reflects a broader shift in the monarchy's approach to governance and engagement. The decision not to use titles like "Royal Highness" and the subsequent stripping of certain forms of recognition signal a move towards a more personalized and non-traditional orientation. As the future of the monarchy continues to evolve, the approach to titles and the role of individual members within the royal family will remain a subject of discussion and interest for the public.