For Fawkes’ sake... it’ll give ‘em ideas
The BBC drama Gunpowder has drawn criticism for its use of graphic, gruesome violence.
Makers of the series about the failed 1605 attempt to blow up Parliament say it’s vital that viewers see the sadistic nature of Catholic executions to understand why the enraged plotters were driven to such extremes.
And I agree. Guy Fawkes’ gang didn’t try to destroy Westminster to give us all a night out every November, but because back then Roman Catholics were viewed as saboteurs whose loyalty to a European superpower meant they cared naught for the future of England’s law, borders and institutions, and were therefore demonised as traitors who should be crushed.
My only fear is the drama might make hardline Tory Leave MPs switch from vetting university lecturers’ pro-Brexit credentials to calling for all “Remoaners” to be hung, drawn and quartered.