The first episode of The Crown season 5, titled “Queen Victoria Syndrome,” is primarily set in the year 1991. While the episode alludes to earlier events and ongoing challenges within the royal family, it firmly establishes 1991 as the narrative’s launchpad for this pivotal season.
Setting the Stage: Understanding the Context of 1991
Season 5 of The Crown marks a significant shift in the series. Not only does it introduce a new cast portraying the Royal Family, but it also tackles a period of increasing scrutiny and societal upheaval for the British monarchy. Understanding the backdrop of 1991 is crucial to appreciating the nuances of the storyline.
The early 1990s were a time of economic recession in the UK, coupled with rising unemployment and social unrest. The Gulf War had recently concluded, leaving a lingering sense of uncertainty and international tension. Within the royal family, tensions were simmering. Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s marriage was publicly crumbling, and whispers of affairs and unhappiness were becoming louder. These real-world events inform the narrative choices made in the episode.
Deconstructing “Queen Victoria Syndrome”
The episode title itself, “Queen Victoria Syndrome,” is loaded with meaning. It refers to a perceived disconnect between the monarchy and the public, echoing the criticisms leveled against Queen Victoria during periods of her reign when she seemed out of touch with the concerns of her subjects. This alleged syndrome becomes a central theme throughout the episode, as the series explores whether Queen Elizabeth II faces a similar crisis of relevance.
John Major, the newly appointed Prime Minister (played by Jonny Lee Miller), is depicted grappling with his own views on the monarchy. He commissions a poll to assess the public’s opinion of the royal family, revealing a worrying decline in support. This poll serves as a catalyst for internal reflection within the royal household, forcing them to confront the possibility that their public image is tarnished.
The Growing Rifts: Charles and Diana
The turbulent relationship between Prince Charles (now played by Dominic West) and Princess Diana (played by Elizabeth Debicki) is a major focus. The episode portrays their increasing alienation and their individual struggles with the constraints of royal life. We see glimpses of Charles’s longing for a different role and Diana’s frustration with her lack of agency. Their unhappiness is palpably felt, setting the stage for the dramatic events that will unfold throughout the season.
Other Royal Pressures
Beyond Charles and Diana, the episode also hints at the challenges faced by other members of the royal family. Princess Anne’s dedication to her work is highlighted, while Prince Andrew’s escapades are subtly alluded to. The episode paints a picture of a family under pressure from within and without.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the historical context and narrative choices surrounding the first episode of The Crown Season 5.
1. Was the public opinion poll depicted in the episode real?
While The Crown is a fictionalized dramatization, the episode is based on historical accounts and reports. The existence of a poll commissioned by John Major’s government, assessing public opinion of the monarchy, is widely reported. The specific details and wording of the poll are likely dramatized for narrative effect, but the underlying premise is rooted in reality.
2. How accurately does the episode portray John Major’s views on the monarchy?
Historical accounts suggest that John Major was a staunch supporter of the monarchy. However, The Crown often explores the inner conflicts and doubts that historical figures might have experienced. While the series portrays Major as concerned about the monarchy’s declining popularity, it also emphasizes his respect for the Queen and the institution. The degree of his internal struggle, as depicted in the episode, is a subject of creative interpretation.
3. What were the major events of 1991 that influenced the narrative?
Besides the crumbling marriage of Charles and Diana, several major events shaped 1991. These include the Gulf War, the ongoing recession in the UK, and growing social unrest. The episode subtly weaves these events into the narrative, highlighting the contrast between the struggles of ordinary citizens and the perceived privilege of the royal family.
4. Is “Queen Victoria Syndrome” a legitimate psychological term?
“Queen Victoria Syndrome” is not a recognized term in psychology or psychiatry. It’s a narrative device used by the series to describe the perception of a disconnect between the monarchy and the public. While the term itself is fictional, the underlying concept of a royal family struggling to remain relevant is a recurring theme in British history.
5. Did Princess Diana truly struggle with her role as much as the series depicts?
Numerous biographies and documentaries have explored Princess Diana’s challenges within the royal family. She reportedly felt constrained by protocol, isolated by her husband’s indifference, and frustrated by the lack of autonomy in her life. The series aims to capture the essence of her struggles, based on these well-documented accounts.
6. How does the episode set the stage for the rest of the season?
“Queen Victoria Syndrome” establishes the central conflict of season 5: the eroding public support for the monarchy and the internal pressures facing the royal family. It introduces the key players, sets the tone for the dramatic events to come, and hints at the scandals and controversies that will be explored in later episodes.
7. Were Prince Charles and Princess Diana already living separate lives in 1991?
While their separation wasn’t officially announced until 1992, reports suggest that Charles and Diana were leading increasingly separate lives in 1991. The episode captures this growing distance, depicting their individual pursuits and highlighting the lack of communication and intimacy in their marriage. Their relationship was already considered “loveless” by many observers.
8. How does the casting of Dominic West and Elizabeth Debicki impact the portrayal of Charles and Diana?
Dominic West and Elizabeth Debicki bring a new level of maturity and gravitas to their roles as Charles and Diana. Their performances effectively capture the weight of their responsibilities and the growing unhappiness in their marriage. Debicki’s physical resemblance to Diana is particularly striking, enhancing the audience’s connection to the character.
9. What liberties does the episode take with historical accuracy?
As with any dramatization of historical events, The Crown takes certain liberties with accuracy for narrative purposes. Dialogue is often invented, and certain events may be compressed or re-imagined to enhance the drama. The series aims to capture the spirit of the era rather than provide a strictly factual account.
10. How did the media contribute to the challenges faced by the royal family in 1991?
The early 1990s saw a significant increase in media scrutiny of the royal family. Tabloid newspapers were increasingly aggressive in their coverage of the royals’ personal lives, contributing to the public’s perception of dysfunction and scandal. The episode subtly hints at this media pressure, which would become a central theme in later episodes. The rampant tabloid culture was a key factor.
11. What is the significance of the episode’s opening scene?
The opening scene, featuring Queen Elizabeth II having her official portrait taken, serves as a symbolic representation of the monarchy’s struggle to maintain its image in a rapidly changing world. The formal setting and the Queen’s stoic demeanor contrast sharply with the growing anxieties and uncertainties facing the royal family. It’s a visual representation of tradition versus modernity.
12. How does the episode portray the relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and John Major?
The episode depicts a respectful but somewhat distant relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and John Major. While they share a mutual understanding of their respective roles, the series hints at a subtle tension between them. Major’s poll results challenge the Queen’s sense of security and force her to confront the possibility that the monarchy’s popularity is waning. The portrayal is nuanced, showing both mutual respect and underlying tensions.