Prince Michael of Greece Passes At 85: Remembering Royal Who Chose Love Over Throne
A well-known royal has passed away at the age of 85.
Prince Michael of Greece has died, leaving a fascinating tale of personal conviction that will surely be studied for years to come, as the Daily Mail reports.
Winding, yet fascinating life trajectory
Born into royalty in 1939, Prince Michael of Greece and Denmark's early years were shadowed by Europe's tumultuous times and familial tragedies.
Son to Prince Christopher of Greece and Denmark and Princess Francoise d'Orleans of France, his profound royal lineage included not only Greco-Danish roots but ties to the House of Bourbon through his mother.
The prince's life took a dramatic turn when he was orphaned at age 14, following his mother's death in 1953 and having already lost his father at the tender age of one.
The turbulence of his early life wasn't the only challenge he faced; the 1967 military coup in Greece found Michael choosing to stay in his homeland while other royals fled. His steadfastness during political upheaval marked a significant episode in his lifelong commitment to Greece, reflecting his patriotism and resilience.
Beginnings of a Royal Life
Michael's personal life was equally fraught with pivotal decisions. In 1965, he made a profound choice to marry Marina Karella, an accomplished painter of non-royal descent.
This decision required him to renounce his claim to the Greek throne, a sacrifice he described as giving him a "sense of freedom." Their love story began strikingly at a social gathering, where immediate attraction led to a whirlwind engagement announced mere weeks after their first meeting.
The couple wed in a grand ceremony on Feb. 7, 1965, at the Royal Palace in Athens. Among the notable guests were Queen Frederica and King Constantine, highlighting the significance and acceptance of the union within royal circles. Described as a "match made in heaven," their marriage was a testament to their enduring love, admired and revered by the public.
Prince Michael's life was personified by this blend of love and duty -- adhering to his nation's call while firmly prioritizing his personal happiness. His marriage not only defined his personal life but also influenced the themes and passion for the books he would write.
The Love That Changed History
After renouncing his royal rights, Michael ventured deeply into the literary world. Beginning his writing career in 1970, he adopted the pen name Michel De Gres and focused his rich narrative skills on historical subjects, ranging from Ancient Greece to the complexities of the Ottoman Empire and European royal families.
His works often mirrored his dual heritage and personal experiences, blending factual history with engaging storytelling.
Michael’s literary contributions earned him recognition not just as a royal but more significantly, as a scholar and writer. His novels, primarily written in French, added to the rich tapestry of European historical literature. They reflected his deep understanding and unique perspective on the histories that shaped his own life and that of others in royalty.
His dedication to his craft and his subjects was appreciated by a global audience, allowing him to leave a lasting academic legacy. His unique insights into royal life and history were complemented by his personal writings and memoirs where he expressed his deeper emotions and decisions, like his significant sacrifice for love.
A Royal Author's Journey
Prince Michael's legacy encompasses more than just his royal lineage or literary achievements; it includes his notable decision to prioritize personal happiness over traditional royal expectations. He passed away peacefully at the age of 85 in a hospital in Athens, with his loving family by his side.
His burial, scheduled for Thursday in the Greek capital, as announced today, marks not just the loss of a royal figure but celebrates a life rich with contributions to literature and a boldly lived personal life.
Prince Michael leaves behind his beloved wife Marina, two daughters, Princess Alexandra and Princess Olga, and five grandchildren, each reflecting aspects of his vast legacy.
The story of Prince Michael of Greece and Denmark is one of a royal figure who carved his path, shaping his destiny around love, loyalty, and literature. His death marks the end of an era for the European royal narrative, but his writings and the story of his life continue to inspire those who value history, culture, and the power of personal choice.
