William Could Likely Be The ‘Last King’ If He Ends Up Modernizing the Monarchy the Way He Wants
In an episode of 'The Reluctant Traveler' with Eugene Levy, William made his stance known to everyone on how he thinks change is good.
Prince William has never hidden his desire to shake up the monarchy and bring about modern changes to ensure a smooth transition of power and escalate functionalities. In an episode of The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy, he made his stance known to everyone on how he thinks change is good, and that he plans to bring about a switch when he takes over the throne. However, royal experts don't think it is a good thing to modernize the monarchy, as it might backfire and collapse the very institution.
"Change is on my agenda," said William, but historian, author, and former clerk at the House of Commons, Eliot Wilson, doesn't think it is a good idea. William has emphasised that he wants to modernize certain aspects and eradicate age-old traditions that do not serve any purpose. Removing hierarchical practices and revamping outdated uniform patterns are just some of the things on his mind. However, Wilson warned that if William tries to "make the Crown something it can never be, and King William could be the last one to wear it."
Talking to The i paper, the former clerk said that if William changes the traditions, the consequences will be dire. "He might find himself left with an institution which was less than the sum of its parts," he explained. The monarchy is very different, and Wilson cautions that the monarchy’s survival depends on its function and symbolism, warning that its strength lies in the balance between constitution and spectacle. He adds, "In a modern society, the monarchy is valuable and justifiable by what it does, not by abstract theory. It has survived because, broadly, it works. It is not logical or accountable; not all of the arrangements that govern us are. We take it as it is, part-constitution, part-theatre."
Prince William makes a cocktail as he visits the Trademarket outdoor market. (Image Source: Getty Images | Phil Noble - Pool)Wilson stressed that "if William, as king, strips away too much, removes the display and performance, in ruthless pursuit of efficiency and modernity, he risks being left with bare bones that have no value," noting that waning public support makes this especially critical. He warned that William will need to consider a lot of things before he takes any step, and his indifference to facts will have irreparable consequences. "Indifference becomes apathy, and apathy can become hostility," he opined.
Royal author Ingrid Seward previously told The Telegraph how King Charles has his paper napkins stamped with his royal cypher, and William will most likely not continue the tradition. He may revise certain protocols and remove unnecessary ornamentation from royal tableware, but he’s expected to preserve the traditions that matter. Though hierarchy and some customs clearly frustrate him, he is still likely to uphold the core values of the monarchy while adapting them to his own vision.
