Reflections on British Royalty: Mass-Observation and the Monarchy, 1937–2022

Jennifer J. Purcell and Fiona Courage have curated and contextualized archival materials from Mass-Observation to explore the British popular imagination of the monarchy and the royal family between 1937 and 2022, revealing the complex nature of the relationship between the British people and the Crown.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In this captivating original volume, Jennifer J. Purcell and Fiona Courage expertly curate and contextualize a wealth of archival materials from the esteemed social research organization Mass-Observation, shedding light on the intricate tapestry of the British popular imagination concerning the monarchy and the royal family. Spanning from the coronation of George VI in 1937 to the passing of Elizabeth II, this comprehensive book encompasses a diverse range of sources, including diaries, detailed responses to questionnaires, internal organizational documents, and published reports on public attitudes toward royalty. Through these diverse materials, Reflections on British Royalty unveils the multifaceted nature of Britain's enduring relationship with its monarchy in the modern era.

The British public's perception of the monarchy and its role within British society and governance is a subject that has captivated the nation for generations. This book delves deep into the intricate dynamics of this relationship, exploring the complex interplay between the British people and the Crown. Mass-Observation, a venerable institution that has been conducting research on these topics for over 80 years, provides a unique lens through which to examine these questions.

Reflections on British Royalty offers a comprehensive exploration of the British public's imagination of the monarchy and the royal family. It examines the historical context, cultural influences, and societal changes that have shaped this imagination over the years. The book provides a rich tapestry of personal narratives, social observations, and political commentary, offering a nuanced understanding of the evolving attitudes and perceptions of the monarchy in British society.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of the monarchy in British identity and national heritage. The monarchy has played a significant role in shaping the country's history, culture, and values, and its image continues to be a powerful symbol of national unity and pride. However, the book also acknowledges the challenges and controversies that have accompanied the monarchy in recent years, such as the public's growing dissatisfaction with the cost of royal ceremonies and the increasing scrutiny of the royal family's private lives.

Another important aspect of the book is the relationship between the British people and the Crown. The monarchy is a constitutional institution, with the Queen serving as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. However, the book argues that this relationship is not a static one, and has evolved over time in response to changing societal norms and expectations. The book explores the various ways in which the British people have interacted with the monarchy, from the traditional reverence and loyalty to the more critical and questioning perspectives that have emerged in recent years.

The book also examines the impact of the monarchy on British politics and society. The monarchy has traditionally been a powerful force in shaping political discourse and decision-making, and its image and reputation can have a significant impact on public opinion and political outcomes. However, the book also highlights the challenges that the monarchy faces in the modern era, such as the increasing scrutiny of its role in the constitutional framework and the growing demand for greater transparency and accountability.

In conclusion, Reflections on British Royalty is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the British popular imagination of the monarchy and the royal family. Through the meticulous curation and contextualization of archival materials from Mass-Observation, the book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex and evolving relationship between the British people and the monarchy in the modern era. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in British history, culture, and society, and will undoubtedly inspire further debate and discussion on the role of the monarchy in the 21st century.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350107137