October 2026 Carolyn Harris Royal Historian Newsletter

October 28, 2026 | Issue 33

STARTS THIS WEEK: Nordic Nations Lecture Series

I am delivering a six week lecture series about the history of the Nordic Nations for the Bluewater Association for Lifelong Learning. Lectures are available to view in person in Owen Sound, Ontario and online.

New TED-ED Video: Queen Victoria

I worked with TED-ED to develop an educational video about Queen Victoria for the History on Trial series.

Watch Here

January 2027 Course at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies: Behind the Crown: The Monarchy from Victoria to Charles III

Recent Royal Commentary

October 4, 2026, The King will never live at Buckingham Palace. What does that mean for the monarchy? (CBC News)

September 22, 2026, Princess Diana’s brother reopens royal wounds as bombshell memoir goes on sale (NBC News)

September 20, 2026, Why Prince Harry and Meghan face more challenges after their return to the U.K. (CBC News)

Further Royal Commentary Available Here

March 2027 Course at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies:

Marie Antoinette and the French Revolution

More than 200 years after her execution, Queen Marie Antoinette is still one of the most famous and controversial figures in European history. In late 18th-century France, her reputation influenced debates about the role of women in politics, their families and the arts. Austrian-born, her position at the top of French society fuelled criticism of the monarchy and contributed to the outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789. Her influence on popular culture continues today.

Discover the real Queen Marie Antoinette behind centuries of myths in popular culture.
Trace the reasons for her controversial reputation.
Explore the clashes in the politics, culture and society of royal and revolutionary France.
Look behind the legend and examine the controversial queen's impact on politics, culture and society.

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