The Case of Edith Cavell A Study of the Rights of Non-Combatants

"The Case of Edith Cavell" by James M. Beck is a recounting of tragic WWI events, spotlighting a British nurse's execution through the lens of wartime justice and morality. The narrative follows Edith Cavell's compassionate work in Brussels as she tended to all wounded soldiers, regardless of their side in the conflict, and how those actions led to her arrest, a hurried secret military trial, and a death sentence. Beck argues that this execution goes beyond the necessities of war, standing as an act of brutal militarism. In arguing the case of Edith Cavell, Beck evokes emotions of justice and humanity, illustrating how a compassionate nurse became a symbol of defiance against oppressive regimes.