Speaking calendar/Guy Fawkes Night
November 5th · History & Rebellion

Guy Fawkes Night

"Remember, remember, the fifth of November..." On this night in 1605, a group of provincial English Catholics led by Robert Catesby attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Today, Guy Fawkes Night (or Bonfire Night) is a uniquely British celebration involving fireworks, massive bonfires, and the burning of effigies. Today, we debate the ethics of celebrating a failed terrorist plot, the power of national myth, and why we still set off fireworks 400 years later.

SPEAKING LESSONB1 / B2Discussion · Vocabulary · Activities
01 / LET’S TALK

Speaking Discussion

  1. Why do you think humans feel the need to celebrate historical events that happened hundreds of years ago?
  2. Is it strange that the British celebrate a failed terrorist plot with a party? What does this say about British humour or identity?
  3. If you lived in 1605 and were unhappy with your government, how would you try to change things without using violence?
  4. Fireworks are beautiful but loud and dangerous. Do you think they should be banned for private use and only allowed at professional shows?
  5. What is a historical figure from your own country that is both loved and hated by different people? Why are they controversial?
  6. Does your country have any festivals involving fire or bonfires? What is the cultural significance behind them?
02 / PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Activity 1: The failed plot Podcast

The Task: You are a History Podcaster. You are interviewing guy fawkes just before he is caught in the cellar of Parliament.

What is his main motivation? Is he a hero or a villain in your eyes?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The most important lesson from history is..."
  • "I think national traditions are..."
  • "In my opinion, rebellion is..."