I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons [Season 1 Episode 12]

“I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons” – Episode 12 Review: A Bittersweet Farewell to Royalty

Title: I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons
Episode: Season 1, Episode 12
Studio: EMT Squared
Release Date: March 23, 2025
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, BiliBili

A Royal Rollercoaster of Emotions

The finale of I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons wraps up Duchess Leticia Dorman’s journey from a rebellious child to a reluctant princess-in-training—and eventually, a bride. Episode 12, titled The Crown Princess’s Resolve, delivers a mix of humor, romance, and a dash of absurdity that fans have come to expect from the series. But does it stick the landing? Well, the internet is divided.

For those who’ve been following Leticia’s struggles, this episode is a culmination of her growth—or lack thereof, depending on who you ask. The episode opens with Leticia and Crown Prince Clarke settling into married life, a development that some fans found heartwarming, while others questioned whether Leticia’s acceptance of her fate was truly earned or just Stockholm syndrome in a fancy dress.

The Good: Cute Moments and Character Growth

One thing most fans agree on? Clarke and Leticia’s chemistry is undeniably adorable. The episode features not one, but two kisses between the couple, animated with a tenderness that contrasts sharply with the show’s earlier chaotic energy.

“The kiss at the end was cute. Ngl, this anime was really cute and did not deserve the hate it got.” — MyAnimeList user

Clarke’s awkwardness and Leticia’s deadpan reactions provide some of the episode’s funniest moments. A standout scene involves Clarke giggling after calling Leticia his wife—a small but endearing detail that humanizes the otherwise stiff prince.

Supporting characters like Prince Matthias and Lyle also get their moments to shine, with Matthias’s subplot adding a touch of wholesomeness. Fans appreciated the lighthearted interactions, even if they didn’t always advance the plot.

The Bad: Unresolved Tensions and Questionable Themes

Not everyone was satisfied with the finale. Critics argue that the show never fully addressed the darker undertones of Leticia’s forced education and engagement.

“This whole premise is so fucked up… The only reason it’s not getting a 1 is because Lettie’s design was pretty.” — MyAnimeList user

The lack of a proper wedding scene also left some fans disappointed. Instead, the episode opts for comedic beats—like Clarke breaking the fourth wall to lament his suffering—which, while funny, felt out of place in what should have been an emotional climax.

Another point of contention? The show’s handling of Leticia’s agency. While she does finally embrace her role as crown princess, some viewers felt her arc was rushed, leaving her earlier rebellious spirit feeling like a forgotten plot point.

The Ugly: The Internet’s Love-Hate Relationship

As with any polarizing anime, I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons has sparked heated debates. Some fans adored the show’s quirky humor and romantic payoff, while others couldn’t overlook its problematic elements.

“Remember kids, all you need to do to make your crush love you is to kidnap them, lock them up in a literal dungeon, and gaslight them to oblivion.” — MyAnimeList user (sarcastically)

The show’s defenders argue that it’s just a lighthearted rom-com, not meant to be taken seriously. Detractors, however, see it as a missed opportunity to explore deeper themes of autonomy and consent.

Final Verdict: A Flawed but Fun Farewell

Despite its flaws, I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons ends on a note that’s undeniably charming—if you’re willing to overlook its missteps. The finale delivers on the promise of romance and humor, even if it stumbles in tying up loose ends.

For fans who stuck around, the journey was worth it for Clarke and Leticia’s sweet moments alone. For everyone else? Well, at least the memes were great.

Rating: 7/10 – A flawed but entertaining ride, best enjoyed with a healthy dose of suspension of disbelief.

Would I recommend it? If you’re in the mood for a silly, tropey rom-com with a royal twist, sure. Just don’t think too hard about the logistics of princess lessons.

What did you think of the finale? Love it or hate it, drop your thoughts below!