Duchess Meghan Markle’s Tongan Curtsy: An In-Depth Look at Royal Protocol and Public Scrutiny

During a momentous and highly anticipated tour of the South Pacific, the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, found herself at the center of a burgeoning royal protocol debate. While accompanying her husband, Prince Harry, on their first major international engagement as a married couple, the then-pregnant Duchess faced considerable scrutiny over her curtsy—or perceived lack thereof—during a meeting with King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho of Tonga. This incident, captured on video and widely circulated, ignited a fervent discussion among royal watchers, etiquette experts, and the general public, drawing attention to the intricate world of royal customs and the immense pressure new members face.

The extensive tour, which spanned several weeks in October 2018, saw the Duke and Duchess of Sussex visit Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand. Each stop was met with immense enthusiasm from local communities and intense media coverage globally. However, it was their October 26th visit to Tonga that inadvertently sparked a significant conversation about royal etiquette. Upon greeting the Tongan monarchs, Meghan’s curtsy was observed to be notably brief and shallow, prompting immediate reactions across social media platforms and traditional news outlets. This moment quickly became a flashpoint, highlighting the steep learning curve for those marrying into the British Royal Family, particularly concerning deeply entrenched traditions.

Understanding the Significance of the Royal Curtsy

For centuries, the curtsy has been a fundamental gesture of respect and deference within royal circles, particularly for women. It is a physical acknowledgement of a monarch’s or a senior royal’s status and is ingrained in the fabric of royal protocol. Traditionally, a proper curtsy involves bending at the knees while keeping the back straight, with one foot slightly behind the other. The depth and duration can vary, but the essence is a clear, deliberate show of respect. When meeting a reigning monarch, such as Queen Elizabeth II, or a foreign head of state, the expectation for a member of the British Royal Family to perform a correct curtsy is paramount. It’s not merely a personal greeting but a diplomatic gesture that reflects not only on the individual but also on the institution they represent.

This traditional gesture extends beyond British borders, influencing interactions with foreign dignitaries and monarchs worldwide. When on an international tour, members of the British Royal Family are expected to demonstrate respect for the customs and leaders of the host nation. While the Tongan monarchy has its own unique traditions, a curtsy from a visiting royal would typically be interpreted as a universal sign of homage and respect, cementing diplomatic ties and showing appreciation for the invitation. Therefore, any perceived deviation from this expectation can be magnified and analyzed from various cultural and diplomatic perspectives.

Meghan’s Journey: Adapting to Royal Life and Protocol

Meghan Markle’s transition from an American actress to the Duchess of Sussex has been nothing short of a global spectacle. Her marriage to Prince Harry brought with it an immediate immersion into a world governed by ancient traditions and strict protocols, many of which are unfamiliar to an outsider. Learning to navigate these intricacies, from dress codes to seating arrangements, and indeed, the proper curtsy, is a continuous process that unfolds under the constant glare of public and media attention.

Prior instances had already shown Meghan’s adaptation in progress. During the Trooping of the Color ceremony on June 12, just weeks after her wedding, eagle-eyed observers noted that Prince Harry subtly prompted his wife to curtsy to Queen Elizabeth II. This moment was widely reported and understood as part of her ongoing education in royal etiquette. Later, at Princess Eugenie’s wedding on October 12, Meghan was seen performing a seemingly flawless curtsy to the Queen, leading many to believe she was quickly mastering the required gestures. This contrast made the Tongan incident all the more perplexing to some, as it appeared to be a step backward in her protocol prowess, especially when encountering other significant world figures.

The Public’s Divided Reaction: Criticism and Defense

The video footage of Meghan’s Tongan curtsy quickly went viral, fueling a heated debate among royal enthusiasts and critics alike. The Instagram page “Royalty and Protocol,” which diligently documents royal engagements and adherence to etiquette, became a hub for thousands of divided comments. On one side, many royal traditionalists expressed disappointment, labeling the curtsy “half-hearted,” “disrespectful,” and a “missed opportunity.”

Critics argued that given her high profile and the resources available to her for protocol training, Meghan should have been fully prepared. Comments such as “To those saying she’s still learning – commoners who get to meet the Queen do better than her, and they have never done it before. Meghan has had plenty of opportunities to get it right. She isn’t trying hard enough,” flooded social media. Some even drew comparisons to the then-three-year-old Princess Charlotte, suggesting that even a young royal had already mastered the art of the curtsy, implying a higher expectation for an adult Duchess.

However, another segment of the public came to Meghan’s defense, offering various explanations and perspectives. Some attributed the awkward curtsy to nerves or confusion, suggesting she might not have been entirely sure if or how to perform it in that specific context. “I see she got confused, and that is the fault of those who should have prepared her. Definitely it’s a huge mistake, but fault is not solely on her,” one commenter remarked, shifting the blame to her royal aides for inadequate briefing. Others pointed out the immense pressure she was under, not only as a new royal but also while being three months pregnant during a demanding multi-week tour. One fan described her move as “lovely,” emphasizing genuine intent over strict adherence to form.

The Pregnancy Factor vs. Demonstrated Flexibility

A significant part of the defense for Meghan’s curtsy revolved around her pregnancy. Supporters argued that her physical condition might have made a deep, sustained curtsy difficult or uncomfortable. However, this argument was quickly challenged by some observers who recalled a powerful moment just days prior during her visit to Fraser Island, Australia. There, Meghan was photographed bending down almost into a kneeling position to greet a wheelchair-bound fan, demonstrating remarkable flexibility and commitment to connecting with the public, despite her pregnancy.

This contrast sparked further discussion: if she could manage such a deep bend to interact with a fan, why was a proper curtsy to foreign monarchs seemingly out of reach? This comparison fueled the criticism, suggesting that the issue was not physical limitation but rather a lack of commitment or understanding of the diplomatic weight of the gesture. This debate highlighted how every action of a royal, especially a new one, is meticulously observed and often weighed against previous instances, creating an environment of constant public judgment.

Broader Implications: Modern Monarchy and Cultural Sensitivity

The Tongan curtsy incident, while seemingly minor, touches upon broader themes concerning the evolution of the British monarchy and its interaction with a diverse, global audience. In an era where traditional institutions are constantly being re-evaluated, how new members adapt to and interpret ancient customs is a matter of ongoing fascination and debate. Meghan Markle, as a biracial American woman joining one of the world’s most historic royal families, inherently brings a modern perspective that often clashes with long-held traditions. Her actions are frequently viewed through the lens of her unique background, inviting both admiration for her fresh approach and criticism for perceived deviations from established norms.

Furthermore, royal tours are not just about spectacle; they are crucial diplomatic missions. Demonstrating cultural sensitivity and respect for local leaders and customs is paramount. While the Tongan royals showed no outward sign of offense and warmly welcomed the Duke and Duchess, the incident served as a reminder of the subtle yet significant role that protocol plays in international relations. For members of the Royal Family, every gesture is scrutinized not just for its personal meaning but for its representation of the British Crown. The ongoing narrative around Meghan’s integration into royal life continues to shape public perception of the monarchy, highlighting the delicate balance between tradition and modernization.

Conclusion

The brief curtsy in Tonga became more than just an isolated incident; it became a symbol of the challenges faced by new royals in navigating an ancient institution under the unrelenting gaze of the world. While Meghan Markle undoubtedly continues to learn and adapt to her demanding role, moments like these underscore the heightened expectations and intense scrutiny that accompany life within the British Royal Family. As the Duchess continues her royal journey, her every move will likely remain a topic of discussion, contributing to the ongoing conversation about tradition, modernity, and the ever-evolving face of the monarchy.