What 'The Crown' gets right about monarchy perception
What's the story
The popular TV series The Crown dramatizes the British monarchy. It mixes entertainment with an understanding of its public perception and modern-day role. The series looks into historical events and the royal family's personal relationships. It touches upon things about monarchy perception which resonate the world over.
#1
Historical accuracy in 'The Crown'
One of the biggest strengths of The Crown is its dedication to historical accuracy. The series painstakingly recreates significant happenings from British history, allowing viewers to understand how it changed the public perception of the monarchy. By centering around key moments like coronation and the ensuing political crisis, The Crown emphasizes how these instances shaped the national sentiment and the world's outlook.
#2
Humanizing royal figures
Another area where The Crown shines is in humanizing the members of the royal family. The series explores their personal demons, relationships, and emotions, making them seem relatable rather than distant. This presentation makes it easier for audiences to connect with royal figures on a personal level, allowing them to sympathize with their roles in an institution that is often perceived as staunch or faceless.
#3
Exploring public opinion shifts
Across its seasons, The Crown delves into how public opinion about the monarchy has changed through the ages. By showing changing societal values and attitudes towards tradition versus modernity, it highlights how these shifts affect perceptions of royalty. It also explains why certain members/actions are looked upon favorably/unfavorably by different generations.
#4
Balancing tradition with modernity
A recurring theme in The Crown is balancing tradition with modernity—a challenge any longstanding institution like a monarchy faces today. Through storylines that tackle evolving cultural norms alongside traditional practices maintained by royals, viewers see the balance in action. Ceremonies, for example, showcase this mix. This balance shapes perceptions positively, by preserving heritage, and negatively, when it is seen as resisting change.