Queen Victoria's relationship with her son, Prince Edward (later Edward VII), was complicated and strained, especially in the aftermath of her husband Prince Albert's death in 1861. Albert's passing had a profound impact on Victoria, who was deeply mourning the loss of her beloved consort. However, her grief soon turned into frustration and anger toward her eldest son, Prince Edward, whom she held partly responsible for Albert’s death.

The blame stemmed from the events leading up to Albert’s decline in health. In 1861, Prince Albert became seriously ill, and some believe that the stress of the tense relationship between Prince Edward and his parents contributed to Albert's worsening condition. Edward was often at odds with his mother, Queen Victoria, and his lifestyle was seen as reckless. He had a reputation for being indulgent and immature, spending his time in high society, drinking, and engaging in various scandals. Victoria felt that Albert had taken on the burden of trying to guide Edward into maturity, and the tension caused by this strained relationship was thought to have weighed heavily on Albert’s health, ultimately leading to his death.

Queen Victoria’s grief was compounded by her perception that Edward's behavior had made Albert's final years more difficult. As a result, she blamed him for his father's death, at least in part, and their relationship became even more distant and strained. Victoria also had a difficult time accepting that her son was growing into adulthood and taking on more responsibility.

As for Princess Alexandra, she was Prince Edward’s wife, whom he married in 1863. Queen Victoria, though initially hesitant about their union, came to admire Alexandra over time. However, it is important to note that there was no direct animosity between Queen Victoria and Princess Alexandra over the situation regarding Prince Albert’s death. The tension was primarily between Queen Victoria and her son, Edward, as she struggled to navigate both her grief and her role as a monarch, while also dealing with her son’s emerging independence.

This period was marked by emotional and familial turmoil, and the Queen’s feelings toward Prince Edward were understandably complex.

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