Does the criticism of finishing Monmouth also apply to the sinking of Bismarck?
Short answerThe circumstances differed: Bismarck still fought back, could receive help, and was trying to reach German-controlled territory. British anger over Hood adds a separate ethical complication.
NotesBismarck still had a prospect of reaching German-controlled French territory and receiving help from aircraft or submarines. Monmouth could at best hope to beach on a neutral coast and had ceased to fight effectively. Bismarck's continuing resistance and the perceived submarine threat offered military reasons for the British to finish the action quickly. The loss of Hood also gave the pursuit a desire for vengeance, which complicates the ethical assessment. These circumstances prevent either sinking from serving as a simple rule for every disabled warship.