Frederick, Prince of Wales, the 'Court' of Leicester House and the 'Patriot' Opposition to Walpole, c.1733–1742. (2nd July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eagles, Robin
• Is Part Of: Court historian. Volume 21:Number 2(2016)
• Page Start: 140
• Page End: 156
• Publication Date: 2016-07-02
• Subjects: Courts and courtiers -- History -- Periodicals; Kings and rulers -- History -- Periodicals; Kings and rulers -- Social life and customs -- Periodicals; 390.22
• DOI: 10.1080/14629712.2016.1245384
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1462-9712

Abstract

Abstract : The character and reputation of Frederick, prince of Wales, have long divided historians. His apparently piecemeal efforts at opposition have been dismissed as lacking in focus, while his mercurial character and early demise have left him difficult to assess. The aim of this article is to attempt once more to reappraise the Prince both as a man at the head of a specific political interest but also more broadly as the symbolic figurehead of a wider patriot movement within society. Through analysis of the contemporary press, and of some of the key members of the Prince's own household, this essay will argue that Prince Frederick was more than just a figurehead for the patriots, if impeded by circumstances and occasionally distracted by his own protean tendencies.*