The British Royals in Popular Culture by Coghlan, Jo; Hackett, Lisa J.; Nolan, Huw;

Short description:

The British Royals in Popular in Popular Culture examines the intricate relationship between the monarchy and popular culture from the Tudors to the Windsors, illustrating how the institution has persistently adapted to maintain its symbolic, psychological, and theatrical significance over centuries. 

Long description:

The British Royals in Popular Culture examines the intricate relationship between the monarchy and popular culture from the Tudors to the Windsors, illustrating how the institution has persistently adapted to maintain its symbolic, psychological, and theatrical significance over centuries. It underscores the intrigue and authority of the British royals, revealing the fine balance between public visibility and the maintenance of mystique that has been pivotal to their enduring presence.

Popular culture is a powerful lens through which to view the monarchy. As cultural industries have shifted over time, so too has the portrayal of the royals. The British royal family has continually navigated the complexities of celebrity culture. Through curated public appearances and carefully staged ceremonies, the royals have maintained their iconic status, bolstering the monarchy’s enduring appeal and cultural significance, while maintaining a mystique essential for ongoing fascination. With the death of Elizabeth II and the coronation of Charles III, this book emphasizes a renewed global interest in assessing how royals occupy cultural and social spaces. It invites readers to critically examine why in a contemporary world, where many sovereigns live largely out of the public eye, the British royals remain a captivating subject of public gaze.

Ultimately, this book highlights how the British royal family has evolved through popular culture, transforming from a historical institution into a global brand. By unpacking the fantasy and reality of the monarchy, it reveals how the royals navigate their roles, maintain their influence, and continually engage with society. In examining how they are fashioned and perceived through various cultural dimensions – from media to fashion, and weddings to state occasions – the text paints a comprehensive portrait of how the British monarchy has persisted through ongoing reinvention and adaptation.

Table of Contents:

Introduction. 1. Inventing Royalty in Merry Old England 2. Inventing Royalty: From the Republic to Regency 3. The Modern Royal Family: The Victorians and Windsors 4. British Royal Family: Media, Celebrity and Popularity 5. See and be Seen: Mediated representations of the Royals 6. Dressing the Royals: Style, Sparkle and Spectacle 7. Royal Weddings – Fashion and Influence 8. Royal tourism and touring royals 9. Let them eat cake: Royal food 10. Animals of the realm