In a world where privacy is a luxury, the Duchess of Sussex’s recent plight pales in comparison to the scrutiny faced by royals of centuries past.
The 15th century was an era where every move of the Royal Family was under intense observation, even their most intimate moments monitored by attendants, courtiers, priests, and ministers.
The BBC’s series, The Hollow Crown – War of the Roses, delved into the marriage between King Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou, shedding light on the traditional ‘bedding ceremonies’ that were part of royal unions.
These ceremonies were not mere formalities but essential for ensuring the legitimacy of a marriage through consummation.
For monarchs like Henry VI, the pressure to produce an heir was paramount, as the future of the kingdom relied on a successor.
His struggles in the royal bedchamber were closely scrutinized, with any perceived shortcomings carrying significant political implications.
Historian Lauren Johnson’s research has uncovered intriguing details about Henry VI’s intimate life, suggesting that trusted attendants were sometimes enlisted to guide the inexperienced king.
The presence of a ‘s** coach’ in his bedchamber raises questions about the lengths to which the court went to ensure the success of the royal marriage.
The practice of ‘bedding ceremonies’ extended beyond the initial wedding night, with attendants occasionally staying to oversee the couple’s interactions.
Such meticulous supervision aimed to confirm the proper usage of the marriage bed, highlighting the weight placed on the monarch’s ability to fulfill their marital duties.
Henry VI’s eventual success in fathering a son, Edward of Lancaster, marked a significant moment in his reign, yet his struggles with masculinity and authority persisted.
His experiences echo those of other young monarchs throughout history, such as Louis XIV of France, who also required guidance in matters of intimacy.
The intimate lives of royals continued to be a subject of fascination in later centuries, with discussions around fertility and s**ual behaviors shaping perceptions of monarchs.
From Louis XVI seeking advice on his marital activities to Elizabeth I’s menstrual cycle being debated, no aspect of royal life was exempt from scrutiny.
Despite the challenges faced by historical royals in their private lives, modern-day counterparts like the Duchess of Sussex navigate their own set of pressures with grace.
As she prepares for the arrival of her first child, she can take solace in the knowledge that the secrets of past royal bedrooms remain confined to the annals of history.
