Symbol and Privilege: The Ritual Context of British Royalty (Anthropology of Form & Meaning)

Rating:
Summary: Essential Reading for any Serious Student of Royalty
Review: There are lots of books about the British Royal Family out there. Many are blatantly pro- or anti- this or that Royal, or insider 'exposés' from former valets or aides. This book isn't like that, and that makes it all the more worth reading.

Author Ilse Hayden looks at the Royal Family and the insititution of the British monarchy from the standpoint of a social anthropologist. She argues convincingly that the Sovereign's influence over government and society is both greater and more direct than is usually recognized. Much of that influence is camouflaged by ritual that seems to be ancient, but is really, for the most part, surprisingly modern.

Hayden takes a comprehensive view of Royal ritual, from big events like coronations and funerals, through Trooping the Colour, to bread-and-butter events like Royal visits and investitures. She also addresses questions like why The Queen carries a purse when she never uses cash, and what's up with the hats and white gloves. She also analyzes how the aristocracy both enhances and draws from the lustre of the Monarchy.

It's no exaggeration to say this book changed my view of the British Monarchy entirely. Whether you're monarchist, republican, or agnostic, you'll find valuable insights here. For anyone interested in moving beyond quick-and-dirty biographies to substantive analysis of what the Monarchy is really all about, you'll find true food for thought here.

Rating:
Summary: Essential Reading for any Serious Student of Royalty
Review: There are lots of books about the British Royal Family out there. Many are blatantly pro- or anti- this or that Royal, or insider 'exposés' from former valets or aides. This book isn't like that, and that makes it all the more worth reading.

Author Ilse Hayden looks at the Royal Family and the insititution of the British monarchy from the standpoint of a social anthropologist. She argues convincingly that the Sovereign's influence over government and society is both greater and more direct than is usually recognized. Much of that influence is camouflaged by ritual that seems to be ancient, but is really, for the most part, surprisingly modern.

Hayden takes a comprehensive view of Royal ritual, from big events like coronations and funerals, through Trooping the Colour, to bread-and-butter events like Royal visits and investitures. She also addresses questions like why The Queen carries a purse when she never uses cash, and what's up with the hats and white gloves. She also analyzes how the aristocracy both enhances and draws from the lustre of the Monarchy.

It's no exaggeration to say this book changed my view of the British Monarchy entirely. Whether you're monarchist, republican, or agnostic, you'll find valuable insights here. For anyone interested in moving beyond quick-and-dirty biographies to substantive analysis of what the Monarchy is really all about, you'll find true food for thought here.