Kerry has been a teacher and an administrator for more than twenty years. She has a Master of Education degree.
Inherit the Wind Discussion Questions
Table of Contents
ShowAs the divide between religion and science becomes fodder for politicians, educators are sometimes left in the precarious situation of having to make some unpopular curriculum decisions. The 1925 trial of a teacher who was imprisoned for teaching evolution inspired the play Inherit the Wind, written by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee. These questions will guide classroom discussions about this play.
The questions in this section introduce the characters, setting, and conflicts in this play.
- The play opens with Howard and Melinda pondering whether or not they have evolved from worms. Why do you think the playwrights opened this way?
- Why doesn't Reverend Brown approve of Rachel and Bert's relationship? How does Rachel hope to resolve their problems? What do you think is the solution?
- What effect does the court case have on the town? What do you think motivates the various townspeople to follow the case? How does this connect to other high profile news stories you have heard about recently?
- Compare Matthew Brady to Henry Drummond. How is each of the attorneys received by the community?
- Why do you think the playwrights chose to feature the journalist, Hornbeck, as a major character? What does he add to the story?
- Describe the jury selection. Do you think Bert can get a fair trial in this town? Why? What is the impact of media coverage on justice?
The questions in this section discuss the court proceedings.
- Drummond and Brady have a prior relationship but are now opponents. How does competition affect their relationship?
- Despite laws that separate church and state, how does religion affect court proceedings and decisions? Why does this pose a problem?
- Why did the playwrights choose this title? What does 'inherit the wind' mean to you?
- What is ironic about the prayers and the behavior of the religious leaders in town? What are some examples of this type of irony in current events?
- Howard is asked to testify against his teacher. Do you agree that he should testify? Why? How does Drummond frame Howard's testimony?
- Why doesn't Bert go to church? Do you agree with the Reverend or Bert? Why? How would you respond if you disagreed with the preacher of your church?
- What is Brady's strategy for convicting Bert? How do you know? What are some examples of bias by the judge? Do you think it is possible for judges and jurors to put aside all biases in a hearing? Explain your answer.
The questions in this section discuss the verdict and the message of this play.
- Why does Drummond tell Bert his rocking horse story? What does it reveal about Drummond's character?
- Why is the mayor concerned about the verdict? Are his concerns justifiable? Explain your answer?
- What is Brady's true motivation for prosecuting Bert? How does he respond when things don't go as planned? Why do you think Drummond defends Brady in the end?
- Do you think justice has been served at the end of this case? Why?
- Rachel leaves her family for Bert. What would you do in that situation?
- In the end, Drummond packs up his Bible and a book by Darwin for his journey. What do you think is the message the playwrights are sending through this ending?
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