History in Images: Victoria Episode 7

Was Sarah a real guest of the Queen? Get the scoop on the true history behind Victoria Season 2 Episode 7, and see images from the era of Her Majesty’s reign.


  1. 1.

    Prince Ernest

    In the Victoria Season 2 finale, Albert’s brother Ernest struggled to adjust to his new life, which he determined could not include a future with Harriet.

    The real Prince Ernest met similar tragedy; he was diagnosed with a venereal disease early into adulthood, and although he did marry, he and his wife were never able to conceive children.

  2. 2.

    Sara Forbes Bonetta

    Episode 7 brought a new addition to the Palace–Sarah, a young African orphan who was brought to Queen Victoria as a gift. Although the Queen allowed Sarah to reside in the Palace, she treated Sarah as a royal guest and honored her title of “princess.”

    The true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta is very similar. After being presented to Queen Victoria as a gift, Sarah was instead treated as an honored guest, and even adopted as the Queen’s goddaughter. Sarah was married at the age of 19, and had three daughters, one of whom who she named after Queen Victoria. Sarah died of tuberculosis at the age of 37.

  3. 3.

    Albert's Ice Skating Accident

    In Episode 7, a terrified Victoria saved Albert from a frozen pond after he fell through the ice while skating.

    A similar incident happened in real life! On the day before their first anniversary, Victoria and Albert went ice skating. When Albert fell into the ice, Victoria reached out and he caught her arm. He was pulled to safety and survived the ordeal.

  4. 4.

    Christmas at the Palace

    The Season 2 finale of Victoria showed Prince Albert festively celebrating Christmas, complete with gifts, cards, and trees hung from the ceiling.

    It’s true that the Prince was especially fond of Christmas–In fact, many of the traditions in place today were popularized by the royal family. Things like Christmas trees, gingerbread, ice skating, and sleigh rides were staples for the Victorian Royal Family.

  5. 5.

    A Royal Tiara

    At the end of Episode 7, viewers may have noticed Victoria wearing a tiara covered in emeralds.

    This tiara was a real present from Albert, and can be seen in several royal portraits and photographs.

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