Historian Herman Lindqvist discusses the unique case of Marius Borg Høiby in royal history, highlighting the exemplary nature of the Swedish royal family. He notes that while such scandals could happen in Sweden, the current Swedish royals are seen as exemplary. The Norwegian royal family, however, is described as fragile due to its youth and limited members.
Swedish Royal Family: Exemplary Compared to Others
Swedish Royal Family: Exemplary Compared to Others
The case of Marius is entirely unique in royal history, according to Herman Lindqvist. He suggests that it "could just as easily have happened in Sweden," but adds: "The current Swedish royal lineup is exemplary in this context."
Historian and author Herman Lindqvist reminds us that "black sheep" have always existed in royal families throughout history.
– Up until the mid-20th century, such matters could be quite effectively silenced, and the troublemakers were sent abroad, or most of it was concealed, and debts were paid off and so on. And this has been the case in every generation.
What is now unfolding in Norway, where Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son Marius Borg Høiby is charged with 32 crimes, including suspected rapes and sexual assaults, is entirely unique.
– It has never happened before, says Herman Lindqvist, but he points out:
– It could just as easily happen in Sweden.
Norwegian Royal House "Fragile"
However, the fact that it is happening in Norway is yet another blow to the Norwegian royal family, according to the historian.
– The Norwegian royal house is particularly fragile because it is so young on the throne – and they have so few members, he explains.
– Crown Princess Mette-Marit has been criticized from the start, and the king and queen's daughter, Princess Märtha Louise's, somewhat peculiar marriage and actions make the Norwegian royal house fragile and a target for media scrutiny.
He adds:
– The current Swedish royal lineup is exemplary in this context.
Marius's Fate is "Tragic"
Herman Lindqvist says he feels sorry for Marius Borg Høiby, calling his fate "tragic," as the 28-year-old grew up in the royal house but never became a prince.
– It was kind of predetermined that things would go wrong for him. He had this precarious role where he was inside, but not really counted in.
– He had all the conditions, all the resources – financial and in terms of appearance – and all the privileges, and not many young men would resist that. But he went too far.