Prince William vs Prince Harry: Who was More Popular at Eton?

Introduction

Eton College, one of the most prestigious and historic schools in the world, has witnessed the upbringing of many future leaders and royalty. Among the twin consequential heirs to the British throne, Prince William and Prince Harry, the question of their popularity and social standing during their time at Eton often arises. This article seeks to explore the dynamics of their relationships, their respective cliques, and the reason behind their differing levels of popularity.

Prince William: The Popularity of the Heir

Honored as the heir to the throne, Prince William was naturally placed in the spotlight, courtesy of his familial legacy. His popularity was bolstered by his natural leadership qualities, frequent academic success, and overall demeanor which made him a role model for his peers. A student himself, one remarked, 'you got to choose your own waistcoat and wear special trousers. William was a Pop so he was like a homecoming-king type but Harry wasn’t.' This highlights the ease with which William could 'fit in' and his ability to be recognized and admired for his many positive attributes.

Prince Harry: The Party Boy

Contrary to his brother, Prince Harry garnered a reputation for being less academically inclined and more focused on social and party life. This inclination towards socializing and revelry made Harry less popular among his peers at first. A student expressed, 'Harry was very jealous of his brothers popularity,' indicating the sibling rivalry and the profound impact of their contrasting behaviors.

Differing Social Dynamics

While William had a close circle of friends and was respected for his leadership and scholastic abilities, Harry’s popularity came from a different source. He was known for being 'up for anything that was not scholastic in nature,' thus creating a different kind of following. This was not a comment on Harry’s intelligence but rather an observation of his personality and the type of crowd he attracted. Some saw him as 'the cool phone number to have as the partying 'spare,' indicating his appeal to students looking for a good time rather than traditional academic success.

Interaction with Royal Traditions and Eton Community

The unique Eton environment, being a stone’s throw away from Windsor Castle, influenced both brothers differently. The students were accustomed to dealing with young royals from time to time, but William, being the heir, was given more opportunities to participate in special events and thrive in the Eton society. Conversely, Harry, while still a royal, struggled academically and found it easier to fit in by embracing his partying nature.

Post-Eton and Future Prospects

Despite differing paths during Eton, both princes have gone on to establish impressive careers and personal lives. William, maintaining his grounded persona, continues to be a model of public service and leadership. Harry, equally, has a unique public image and a wide network due to his more casual and laid-back approach. Eton provided them with a valuable experience that shaped their young lives, and while their popularity may have differed then, they remain influential figures today.

Conclusion

The question of who was more popular at Eton between Prince Harry and Prince William is complex, rooted in their contrasting personalities, social behaviors, and academic inclinations. Although opinions vary, it is clear that both princes made significant impacts in their respective circles, contributing to their unique places in history. This duality in popularity serves as a testament to their individual characteristics and their ability to carve out their own paths, influenced by the environment they were brought up in.