Queen Charlotte Timeline Explained: Here's Where It Fits in the Bridgerton Story
It seems the Bridgerton prequel writers have shifted the timeline of some real-life events.
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story has finally arrived, treating fans to a six-chapter addition to the Bridgerton universe. The prequel focuses on the first tumultuous months of Charlotte and George's marriage and the transformation of London into a multicultural society.
Given the emphasis on real historical figures, viewers may wonder about the time period the latest Netflix drama is set in. Here's everything you need to know.
Two Timelines
The spinoff's story unfolds in two distinct timelines: the present of the Bridgerton universe, when the Bridgerton siblings are seeking mates, and the past, within a few months of Charlotte and George's marriage. Over five decades separate these two periods. But can we pinpoint the exact years?
The Past Timeline
Since Charlotte is a historical figure, we know the precise year she married King George. The wedding between the 17-year-old princess and the 23-year-old king took place in 1761, just a few months after George ascended the throne. It appears the show's past timeline is set around that time.
The Present Timeline
Julia Quinn's book series spans 1813 to 1827, with the first two novels occurring in 1813 and 1814, and the series creators have maintained that timeline. The prequel also explores the queen's devastating loss of her only legitimate heir. The real-life Princess Charlotte Augusta died in 1817, which should place the spinoff about three years after Anthony Bridgerton and Kate Sharma tied the knot. But is that the case?
Aligning the Prequel with the Bridgerton Story
Several clues suggest where Queen Charlotte fits within the Bridgerton universe. In the first episode, Violet Bridgerton appears with two grandchildren rather than one, as in Season 2. Many fans believe both children are Daphne's since she appears pregnant in the final moments of Season 2.
Additionally, Violet informs Lady Danbury that Anthony and Kate are honeymooning. The final episode reveals the couple embarked on a six-month vacation immediately after their wedding. Violet also mentions her second daughter, Eloise and Penelope Featherington, Season 3's protagonist, are currently quarrelling, likely over Lady Whistledown. Moreover, Lady Whistledown is actively publishing her infamous column.
These facts place Queen Charlotte between Seasons 2 and 3, several months after Anthony and Kate's wedding. As the prequel depicts Christmas preparations at the royal palace, it is safe to assume the characters are welcoming the year 1815. Consequently, Princess Charlotte Augusta's death has been brought up by two years.