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Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, is making her stance clear on certain royal traditions. While some customs are deeply ingrained in royal life, Middleton is choosing a modern path for her family.
In Tom Quinn’s new book, Yes Ma’am – The Secret Life of Royal Servants, it is revealed that Middleton has prohibited her children from participating in an archaic ritual known as blooding. This ritual traditionally involves smearing blood on a person’s face after their first kill during fox or stag hunting.
Royal Traditions Under Scrutiny
The blooding ritual has been criticized for its barbaric nature, and many royal experts are not surprised by Middleton’s decision. Helena Chard, a British broadcaster and photographer, expressed her disbelief at the potential impact of such traditions on young minds.
“Why would Princess Catherine permit her children to be traumatized by the archaic and barbaric blooding ritual?” Chard questioned.
Nature Versus Tradition
Chard emphasized the importance of promoting positive outdoor experiences over endorsing brutal rites of passage. “The great outdoors encompasses feel-good nature, life, and healing,” she added. “I wouldn’t expect anything less from Princess Catherine. Blood sports are inhumane and belong to the Dark Ages.”
Middle-Class Values in Royal Parenting
According to excerpts published by the UK’s Daily Mail, Middleton has been firm in her beliefs. Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis will not partake in the blooding ritual.
Quinn noted that Middleton is adamant about this decision, stating, “[King] Charles’s daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales, has put her foot down and insisted there will be no blooding for her children.”
A Shift in Parenting Dynamics
Hilary Fordwich, a royal expert, commented on how Middleton is respected within the royal family. “Princess Catherine, coming from a middle-class background, brings a fresh approach to parenting,” Fordwich said. “She is seen by both Prince William and King Charles III as an excellent mother with great instincts.”
According to Fordwich, Prince William shares a desire to be a more modern parent, in touch with contemporary views. Their home reflects this shift; they prefer a family environment without live-in nannies, fostering a sense of normalcy for their children.
Changing Attitudes Towards Blood Sports
In his 2023 book Gilded Youth, Quinn described how William feels conflicted about traditional royal pastimes. “William is struggling with the traditional pastimes of the royal family as they become increasingly unpopular with the public,” he wrote.
While William enjoys shooting, he recognizes a growing unease surrounding blood sports. “Few expected Kate to allow her children to participate in the blooding tradition,” Quinn added.
A Love for the Outdoors
Kate Middleton has been noted for her appreciation of nature. In a video released in September 2024, she celebrated her health milestone by highlighting the importance of nature and outdoor activities.
Voices of Dissent
Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner described Middleton’s decision as a logical step. “The reality of harming an animal as part of a tradition is outdated,” he said. “We live in 2025, not 1725.” This perspective reflects a growing sentiment in society towards humane treatment of animals.
Turner pointed out that Middleton faces challenges in changing long-standing traditions, stating, “Kate has a battle on her hands stopping practices like this.”
Personal Experiences and Reflections
Prince Harry previously shared his experience of blooding in his memoir, Spare. His unsettling description of the ritual emphasizes its harsh realities, indicating a broader conversation about traditional practices in the royal family.
Harry wrote about a memory where he was forced into an uncomfortable situation during a blooding ritual, describing the visceral and traumatic experience.
A Path Towards Modern Parenting
In light of Kate’s reported choices, experts believe her modern approach to parenting will resonate with the public. Chard noted, “Princess Catherine is evolving her role as a future queen, focusing on health and well-being.”
This includes her efforts to reshape the perception of royal upbringing. “Her mission is to nurture her children away from brutal traditions,” Chard explained.
Addressing Animal Rights and Royal Involvement
Both William and Kate are involved with charitable initiatives, including those combating illegal wildlife trade. This commitment highlights the contradiction of endorsing blood sports while promoting animal rights. Chard stated, “It would be hypocritical for the Wales family to support blood sports.”
Historical Context and Legacy
Concerns regarding hunting have been voiced by previous royals as well. Ingrid Seward, a royal journalist, pointed out that the late Princess Diana disapproved of game shooting, even expressing discomfort with her sons holding guns.
Ken Wharfe, Diana’s former royal protection officer, offered similar insights, affirming her revulsion towards hunting practices.
Looking Ahead
Princess Catherine’s modern parenting choices reflect a shift in royal family dynamics, prioritizing compassion over outdated traditions. As she prepares for her future role, her emphasis on child welfare is becoming increasingly clear.
Kate Middleton is leading by example, showing that the royal family can embrace change while maintaining their responsibilities and values. This represents a new chapter for the monarchy, focused on nurturing the next generation with care and modern sensibilities.
