“News of Queen Elizabeth’s death was not wholly unexpected. She lived to the great age of 96. After enjoying markedly good health for so long, the oldest monarch in British history had recently appeared more fragile. She had understandably become a more private woman since the death of Prince Philip last year and had been less publicly visible, undertaking lighter duties. All of us knew that this moment was approaching.“ “It arrives nevertheless as a national shock, but also as a shared moment of reflection, and as the start of a new and unwritten chapter for the British monarchy and the country itself. The Queen’s death brings personal loss for those close to her, and she had also been a constant presence in millions of lives.“ To read our full editorial - The Guardian view on the death of Queen Elizabeth II: the end of an era - click the link in bio. Illustration by @bjenningsuk for @guardiancartoons #queen #queenelizabeth #queenelizabethii #monarchy #illustration