For fans of Alan Moore’s graphic novel and the iconic film adaptation V for Vendetta, the Fifth of November is instantly recognizable. However, this day—celebrated across the UK as Guy Fawkes Day or Bonfire Night—is a complex holiday, especially when viewed through an American lens.
Unlike American traditions that often celebrate a successful revolt or overthrow of government, the Fifth of November actually commemorates the prevention of one.
The Gunpowder Plot of 1605
On November 5, 1605, a group of provincial English Catholic conspirators—most famously guard Guy Fawkes—attempted to blow up the House of Lords during the State Opening of Parliament. Their ultimate goal was to assassinate Protestant King James I and spark a popular revolt. The plot was exposed, Fawkes was captured guarding barrels of gunpowder beneath Parliament, and the attack was thwarted.
In Britain, the annual tradition isn’t held to honor the rebel hero; it marks the fact that the government and the King survived. We might think politics are wild today, but we certainly don’t have a national holiday set aside to celebrate catching a guy who tried to blow up the Capitol!
How the UK Celebrates Today
Today, Bonfire Night is a major British autumn celebration featuring:
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Bonfires: Effigies of Guy Fawkes (traditionally called “Guys”) are burned atop massive neighborhood pyres.
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Fireworks: Spectacular community firework displays light up the night sky across England, Scotland, and Wales.
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The Famous Nursery Rhyme: The historical treason is immortalized in the famous 17th-century folk verse:
“Remember, remember, the fifth of November,
The Gunpowder Treason and plot.
I know of no reason why the Gunpowder Treason
Should ever be forgot.”
So whether you’re rewatching Hugo Weaving and Natalie Portman’s dystopian masterpiece tonight or just burning a sparkler, happy Fifth of November!
Stay Geeky!
