Up to this point, the prospect of Kate’s narrative following a similar trajectory appeared unlikely. She consistently embodied the traits of a people-pleaser akin to those of a Navy SEAL: possessing the ideal physique, ethnicity, connections, along with impeccable hair, etiquette, lineage, and education. However, none of these attributes aided her in attaining and consolidating her position within the royal family as much as her remarkable levels of endurance and self-discipline did. Kate never found herself in compromising situations leaving a nightclub, nor did she engage in altercations with the paparazzi. In front of billions of observers, she meticulously selected the perfect attire for the wedding, executed her tasks flawlessly, waved graciously from the carriage, and maintained a constant smile.
Kate epitomizes the role of the dutiful daughter, devoted wife, considerate daughter-in-law, and nurturing mother. Behind the scenes, she is the individual who stood outside a hospital, still in heels, in full view of the global media, all while dealing with the aftermath of childbirth. Yet, it is effortless to envision countless alternative scenarios for her life. It is conceivable that if Kate had not entered the royal sphere, she would be persistently reminding her siblings about their parents’ anniversary dinner. She would likely respond with a forced smile and a polite “Sure!” when approached by another parent from her children’s school inquiring if she had any commitments post drop-off, seeking her assistance for a few hours. Kate would probably continue to turn a blind eye when her mother-in-law, for the umpteenth time, surreptitiously offers her children candy containing red dye, despite her explicit instructions against it.
In essence, it is not challenging to envision Kate leading a life of unwavering compliance and conformity. She embodies the archetype of someone who never utters a negative word, voices a complaint, or causes a disturbance. This approach to life is explicitly prescribed within the royal family, yet these qualities are still revered in women (and men alike—there are husbands, sons, and brothers who also suppress their true feelings to maintain harmony). Society continues to uphold the belief that emulating Kate’s behavior is the ideal path, with Kate herself serving as living proof. “Look how far you can get being good!” has always been the underlying message of Kate’s tale—a narrative that stands in stark contrast to the numerous women who have been unjustly labeled as irrational, unintelligent, or promiscuous. Kate has taught us that one can achieve significant success through goodness. However, this does not equate to wielding power or emerging victorious.
In recent weeks, what was once an exemplary narrative has taken a cautionary turn. What rewards did Kate reap for her virtuous conduct? The likely scenario surrounding the manipulated photograph encapsulates the essence of the situation: individuals took old images of Kate, recontextualized them to convey a false narrative, appropriated her identity and voice for the accompanying caption. Subsequently, when exposed, they shifted the blame onto her and probably crafted an apology on her behalf. These manipulative tactics may appear orchestrated by a malevolent faction, but fundamentally, they stem from a family accustomed to relying on the compliant daughter to maintain composure and avoid confrontation.