Duty and Morality

The book emphasizes Victoria's lifelong commitment to duty, conscience, and moral rectitude, from her childhood vow to 'be good' to her strict enforcement of domestic virtue at court, such as banning divorced women and frowning on widows remarrying.

Victoria's strict sense of duty and moral rectitude defined her personal conduct and public image, especially during her long mourning for Albert.

The Duke of Kent frames his marriage as a painful duty to the nation and the succession, contrasting his personal attachment to Madame St. Laurent with his public obligation.

The Duchess of Kent's primary goal was to raise Victoria as a Christian queen, instilling a sense of duty and moral rectitude, as seen in the educational examination and Victoria's confirmation reflections.

Victoria's early education emphasized Christian duty and moral rectitude, culminating in her resolve to 'be good' upon learning of her future role.