Why did the plotters take their action? Students could be asked to investigate why Robert Catesby chose to become a traitor rather than convert to Protestantism. There is excellent material on Catesby and the other plotters on the internet, at sites such as Treason (www.channel4.comhistorymicrositesHhistorytreason) or the Gunpowder Plot Society (www.gunpowder-plot.org). An interesting twist in the tale is that Robert’s son was a Protestant, so students could write an imaginary letter from Catesby to his son explaining his actions.

KS 4-5

Students could compare and contrast the motivation of the plotters with those from different periods, such as the Luddites, Cato Street Conspirators, Tolpuddle Martyrs, Suffragettes, First and Second World War conscientious objectors. How have these various organisations and individuals been remembered or not? How did the popular media of the time present them?