Majesty in Canada: Essays on the Role of Royalty

Clint MacNeil teaches history, geography, and world religion at St.
Charles College in Sudbury.

The 12 essays gathered in this volume discuss the role of monarchy and
its impact on Canada. The essays are grouped into four themes: tours,
the regal touch, representing the monarch, and images of monarchy.

It appears that most Canadians are generally fond of monarchy. The
question is whether this affinity is genuine or the product of a
carefully contrived image of monarchy. For example, Philip Buckner
provides convincing arguments that the royal tours of 1860 and 1901 were
not royal inventions but rather reflected a sentiment deeply imbued
within Canadians.

Queen Victoria’s life milestones were cause for numerous
celebrations. This allowed for various groups to unite behind a single
transcendent institution. Massive public exposure via the media only
heightened her popularity. In a similar manner, Elizabeth II rejected
the notion that a televised coronation would be intrusive. As Peter
Trepanier observes, “[she] instinctively saw the potential of
television to display her person as the continuing embodiment of that
role.”

France’s Louis XV sought a very secularized and royally controlled
fort of Louisburg on Isle Royale (Cape Breton). Everything from street
names, the coat of arms, bonfires, and even the Eucharist was meant to
serve as a reflection of the king’s importance. By contrast,
Aboriginal leaders in British Columbia recognized Edward VII’s
importance and, much to the chagrin of local officials, sought a
personal audience with him to discuss the plight of their people.

An examination of how monarchs perceived their reign and their
attitudes toward colonists could have presented an additionally
intriguing perspective.

While remaining loyal to both crowns, Canadians have also politely
insisted on maintaining their independence. Majesty in Canada helps to
broaden our understanding of Canada’s intimate and sometimes fragile
relationship with its respective monarchies. The book’s scholarly
approach may disappoint those who prefer the scandalous exploits of
royalty as reported in the tabloids.