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The consequences of Will’s (Tamblyn Lord) moral position are hard for him and for his family. His mother, Elizabeth Barnes (Penne Hackforth-Jones), is presented with a white feather by a neighbour Mrs Wilkes (Eve Godly) accusing Will of being a coward. At the camp, a despondent Will feels that he is a coward because he hasn’t always stood up for his convictions as well as he should. He is repulsed by the bayonet training. His father (Bruno Lawrence) receives an anonymous note.
Curator’s notes
This clip captures how conscientious objectors and their families were treated during this time, making it clear that it was not an easy path to take. Certainly, the message is that bravery is not just about fighting. The filmmakers use these scenes to present different views but are also encouraging the young audience to look beyond the obvious, particularly with anonymous note left on Thomas Barne’s desk by men who aren’t brave enough to identify themselves.
