Following months of media speculation, the confirmation that the Duchess of Cambridge is pregnant again, a week in advance of the celebrations for Prince Harry’s 30th birthday, puts the topic of royal siblings firmly back into the spotlight. With the Duchess again suffering from acute morning sickness, her condition necessitated an early announcement, before the traditional milestone of 12 weeks. This places her due date early in spring 2015, meaning that there will be less than two years between Prince George and his little brother or sister; the future king and the spare. The siblings are likely to be close, but their future paths will be very different. This will certainly shape the development of their characters and the decisions they are able to make.
Today, the old adage of the “heir and spare” no longer carries such significance as when the threat to infant life of disease and mortality was severe, yet there is still considerable difference between the experiences of the firstborn royal child and its siblings. While Prince Harry is reported as “unable to conceal” his excitement about being an uncle for the second time, relations between historical royal brothers have not always been so harmonious. Some have actively schemed against their elder, coveting their throne and power, while others have adopted a position more in the background, combining royal duties with a colourful private life. If nothing else, the second-born royal child always manages to leave their mark. For many, the position has conferred a degree of freedom, a certain licence, which has allowed some to exploit their unique position of privilege and freedom.
Content from our partners
