What Do English People Think of the Royal Family? | Easy English 98

Summary

In this episode of Easy English, the host explores public opinion on the British monarchy while at the Brighton beach. The diverse responses range from viewing the royal family as an anachronism to appreciating their environmental leadership and continuity amidst societal change. The younger generation's potential to modernize the monarchy and make it more relatable is highlighted, along with the Queen's enduring dedication and the family's significant cultural and economic impact on the UK.

Takeaways

• 👑 The British public has a diverse range of opinions on the monarchy, with some seeing it as an institution with secrets and others as a symbol of national pride.
• 🔍 There is a curiosity among people to know more about the royal family's real life, beyond the facade they present to the public.
• 📉 Some individuals believe the royal family should be streamlined, as they currently seem too large and cumbersome.
• 🌿 The royal family is perceived by some as being at the forefront of environmental issues, leading the way in sustainability.
• 🔄 Opinions on the royal family have evolved over time, with some initially skeptical individuals coming to appreciate their role in society.
• 🔗 The royal family is seen by some as an anachronism, but also as a source of continuity and stability during times of change.
• 👍 The younger generation of the royal family, particularly Prince William and Kate, is expected to modernize the monarchy and be more approachable.
• 🤔 There is a debate about the appropriateness of referring to the royal family as 'the firm,' with some finding it distasteful.
• 🏰 The royal family's ownership of palaces and other properties is seen by some as a benefit to the nation, as they are considered national assets that generate tourism revenue.
• 👸 The Queen is highly respected for her long service and is credited with bringing the royal family into the modern era while maintaining traditional values.
• 🌱 Prince Charles is acknowledged for his environmental initiatives and is seen as a bridge between the traditional and modern views of the royal family.
• 🌐 Prince William's 'Earthshot' project is highlighted as a significant global environmental initiative that reflects the younger royals' commitment to the future.
• 🏴󠁧󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The Welsh background of one interviewee initially led to questioning the value of the royal family, but their opinion has shifted over time due to the family's environmental leadership.
• 👦 Prince Harry's decision to step back from royal duties is seen as a break from tradition, reflecting a desire for personal freedom and a different path.
• 👵 The Queen's adherence to protocol and tradition has shaped her reign, but the next generation of royals is expected to bring a more modern approach to their roles.

Q & A

What is the general sentiment of the people of Brighton towards the monarchy as expressed in the transcript?

The people of Brighton have mixed views about the monarchy. Some believe the royal family has many secrets and a facade that needs to be broken down, while others see them as a great institution and appreciate their environmental leadership and continuity in times of change.

How has the opinion of one interviewee changed over the years regarding the royal family?

The interviewee's opinion has evolved from questioning the value and worth of the royal family, especially considering their Welsh background, to recognizing their role in leading environmental initiatives and being at the cutting edge of societal changes.

What does the term 'firm' refer to in the context of the transcript?

In the transcript, the term 'firm' is used by some interviewees to describe the royal family, although one person expresses dislike for the term, arguing it is a horrible way to describe them.

What is the significance of the Queen's role according to the transcript?

The Queen is seen as having done a wonderful job throughout her reign, holding the country together and being a significant figure that brings tourists and revenue into the country.

How do the interviewees perceive the younger generation of the royal family?

The younger generation, particularly Prince William and Kate, is viewed as doing a great job and is expected to modernize the monarchy, making it more approachable and less aloof.

What is Prince William's 'Earthshot' initiative mentioned in the transcript?

The 'Earthshot' initiative is a project championed by Prince William that aims to address environmental challenges and is being taken around the world, with the next location mentioned being the United States.

How do some interviewees feel about Prince Harry's decision to step back from royal duties?

Some interviewees believe that Prince Harry may have gone a step too far in opting out of royal duties, while others see it as a break from tradition and an expression of his desire for freedom.

What is the general view on the relevance of the royal family in today's society as per the transcript?

There is a difference of opinion on the relevance of the royal family. Some believe they are still needed and provide a sense of continuity and stability, while others think society could function without them.

What are the perceived benefits of having a royal family according to the transcript?

The perceived benefits include providing a sense of tradition and continuity, attracting tourism and revenue, and offering a balance in the community.

How do the interviewees think the royal family could change in the future?

The interviewees predict that the royal family will become thinner in terms of members, with a focus on the core family, and that the younger generation will bring a more modern approach to their roles.

What is the attitude towards Prince Charles as expressed in the transcript?

Prince Charles is seen as having started to make changes within the royal family, although not without controversy, and is recognized for his environmental consciousness and initiatives.