Understanding the British Perception of Queen Elizabeth II as a Mortal Human Being

The notion that Queen Elizabeth II seems to defy mortality is a common misconception often perpetuated by media and pop culture. This perception is largely anachronistic, as displayed in science fiction like the Norstrilia stories by Cordwainer Smith, where characters on a colony planet continue to revere an absent monarch. Such a belief among the British public is actually quite rare. Historically, British people have accepted that the monarchy is a human institution, not a divine one.

The British Perspective on Monarchy and Mortality

Many Britons are well aware that Queen Elizabeth II, like any other human, is subject to the natural limitations of life. This is not a new concept; it has been part of British society for centuries. The idea that the monarchy is somehow equated with divine kingship is a historical anachronism, largely derived from medieval times. Today, the majority of Britons view the monarchy with a mix of respect and practicality. Some even expressed a preference for a non-hereditary succession system. For many, Prince Charles's claim to the throne did not evoke enthusiasm; it was often met with indifference or even resignation, especially after the Queen's Silver Jubilee, when direct royal encounters seemed less imposing and more human.

Is the Public Fully Aware of Her Mortality?

Yes, the public is acutely aware of the Queen's age and the inevitability of her eventual absence. Age became a significant topic of conversation, especially after her record-breaking reign. The transition from one monarch to another is something that British people are well-prepared to handle. Unlike in previous centuries, where succession by heredity was often contentious and violent, modern preparations for the shift in power are conducted with great legitimacy and formality.

Preparations for the Royal Succession

The transition of power is well-planned and executed behind the scenes to maintain a sense of dignity and respect. Public discussions about the Queen's death are generally avoided, as it is considered impolite and disrespectful. Historically, such topics were even more sensitive; the very contemplation of a king's death was once considered treason. Today, these discussions are handled with discretion by royal and governmental bodies.

Upon the Queen's death, appropriate constitutional and legal protocols ensure the seamless transition of power. Charles becomes King immediately upon the Queen's passing, stipulated in the Act of Settlement 1701 and the Law of Succession to the Crown. Though the exact timing and scale of the coronation ceremony depend on economic and political considerations, it is an event that will naturally occur after the Queen's passing. If the nation is facing economic hardships, the coronation might be scaled back to avoid public expense and criticism.

Final Thoughts

As the world watches the British monarchy, one recurring question remains: why does the Queen seem so immortal? The answer, much like the monarchy itself, lies in the changing perceptions and the passage of time. The British people, no less aware of the inevitability of death, have adapted and embraced the reality that the Queen is human, just like them. The rituals and traditions that surround the monarchy serve not only to honor the past but also to ensure a smooth and dignified future for the British crown.