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About the Play Inherit The Wind

Inherit the Wind is set in the small town of Hillsboro, a fictional representation of Dayton, Tennessee, where the real-life Scopes Trial took place in 1925. The play opens with the arrest of Bertram Cates, a high school teacher accused of teaching Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, which violates a state law mandating the teaching of creationism.

The heart of the play unfolds in the courtroom, where two larger-than-life figures face off. Henry Drummond, a character based on defense attorney Clarence Darrow, represents Cates. Opposing him is Matthew Harrison Brady, a stand-in for prosecutor William Jennings Bryan. The courtroom scenes are intense and dramatic, filled with sharp dialogue and emotional testimony. The trial becomes a battleground for broader issues, including freedom of thought, the role of science in society, and the tension between progress and tradition.

The trial concludes with a thought-provoking verdict that leaves the townsfolk and the audience questioning their beliefs. The final scenes underscore the play's central message about the importance of intellectual freedom and the dangers of dogmatism. 

Themes in the play Inherit the Wind

Freedom of Thought: One of the most significant themes in Inherit the Wind is the importance of intellectual freedom. The play champions the right to think, question, and explore new ideas, even when they challenge established norms.

The Conflict Between Science and Religion: Inherit the Wind explores the tension between scientific inquiry and religious belief. The characters' debates about evolution versus creationism mirror ongoing, still current discussions. This theme provides an excellent opportunity for teachers to encourage students to consider different perspectives.

The Role of the Individual in Society: The play also examines the role of the individual in society and the courage required to stand up for one's beliefs. Bertram Cates' decision to teach evolution despite the legal and social repercussions serves as a powerful example of personal integrity. This theme can inspire students to think about their values and the importance of standing up for what they believe in.

Activity Ideas for the play Inherit the Wind

Background Internet Search: Make your computer screen available for students to view and do an Internet search for information about the Scopes Trial, sharing and discussing the information.

Debates and Role-Playing: One of the most engaging ways to explore Inherit the Wind in the classroom is through debates and role-playing. Divide students into groups and assign them roles as characters from the play or figures from the actual Scopes Trial. Encourage them to research their assigned roles and prepare arguments to present in a mock trial. This activity not only helps students understand the play's themes but also develops their public speaking and critical thinking skills.

Movie Comparison: Show the movie version of Inherit the Wind and hold a discussion comparing the movie to the text.

Discussion Questions: Develop a list of discussion questions to guide classroom conversations about "Inherit the Wind." Questions might include:

• How does the play's depiction of the trial differ from the actual Scopes Trial?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments presented by Drummond and Brady?
• How do the characters' personal beliefs influence their actions and decisions?
• What lessons can we learn from "Inherit the Wind" about the importance of free thought and open inquiry?