Being the Queen: The Life of Queen Elizabeth II | National Geographic (Full Episode)

Recent questions

• What challenges did Princess Margaret face in her romantic life?

  Princess Margaret faced romantic struggles, including a forbidden love with Peter Townsend, which highlighted the difficulties encountered by the royal family. Despite her feelings for Townsend, their relationship faced societal and familial opposition due to his divorced status, leading to a heartbreaking decision for Princess Margaret to choose between love and duty. This dilemma shed light on the personal sacrifices and constraints imposed on members of the royal family, showcasing the complexities of navigating personal desires within the confines of royal expectations.

• How did the queen's private life change after becoming queen?

  The queen's private life underwent a significant transformation upon assuming her role as queen, symbolized by the hearses awaiting her at the airport. This marked the end of her personal autonomy and privacy, as her duties and responsibilities as monarch took precedence over her individual desires. The transition from a private individual to a public figure was stark, highlighting the sacrifices and constraints that come with royal status. The queen's sense of duty and training by her father played a crucial role in shaping her approach to her new role, emphasizing the weight of her responsibilities and the expectations placed upon her as the reigning monarch.

• How did the monarchy handle scandals and broken marriages?

  The monarchy faced challenges with broken marriages and scandals that strained their image of family harmony. Instances like Princess Margaret's forbidden love with Peter Townsend and Princess Diana's troubled marriage brought public scrutiny and criticism to the royal family. These controversies highlighted the complexities of balancing personal relationships with royal duties, showcasing the impact of private struggles on the public perception of the monarchy. Despite efforts to maintain a facade of unity and tradition, the royal family's internal turmoil and external scandals underscored the fragility of their public image and the challenges of upholding a sense of family cohesion amidst personal struggles.

• What impact did Princess Diana's death have on the public and the royal family?

  Princess Diana's tragic death in a car crash prompted widespread public mourning and criticism of the royal family's response to the tragedy. The untimely loss of the beloved princess sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from people around the world, underscoring her enduring popularity and influence. The public scrutiny of the royal family's handling of the situation raised questions about their emotional distance and lack of empathy, leading to calls for a more compassionate and responsive approach. Queen Elizabeth's heartfelt tribute to Princess Diana reflected a shift in the monarchy's public image, acknowledging the need for greater understanding and connection with the people they serve.

• How did the queen's relationship with Prince Philip evolve over time?

  Princess Elizabeth's early love for Prince Philip caused parental concern due to the weight of his role in the monarchy, but their relationship endured and evolved over time. As the queen's duties consumed her time, Prince Philip took on a more domestic role, supporting her in her royal responsibilities while also navigating his own position within the royal family. Their partnership reflected a balance of personal affection and public duty, showcasing the complexities of maintaining a strong relationship amidst the demands of royal life. The queen and Prince Philip's enduring bond and mutual support underscored the importance of companionship and unity in navigating the challenges of royal status.