20th November 2024

Every year there are two events commemorated in November. On 5th we are reminded of the Gunpowder Plot – and we light bonfires and let off fireworks. Then a few days later, on the 11th we remember those killed in the First World War and the many conflicts since, as we stand in silence for two minutes.

On 5th November 1605 Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the King and leading politicians as they assembled in Parliament. On 11th November 1918 the Armistice brought to an end the First World War and so we pay tribute to those who died ‘for King and Country’. Not long after the failed plot in 1605 Fawkes and those behind the conspiracy were also killed.

We celebrate those who were killed in war and perhaps especially in the Second World War, when the evil Nazi regime was being challenged. However, there are some who are largely forgotten – those German plotters who tried and failed to assassinate Hitler in 1944. The plotters in 1605 were trying to destroy what they regarded as an evil regime. Does anyone still regard them as heroes or martyrs?

Some of the plotters in Germany in 1944 had to wrestle with their consciences – was murder ever justified to end a tyranny? Some at least of the 1605 plotters may have faced a similar dilemma.

What would we do in similar circumstances – is assassination – murder – ever justified? Is it different from killing a soldier in the opposing army?

What do you think?

David T Roberts