Inherit the Wind

The term "Inherit the Wind" comes from a verse in the Bible, specifically Proverbs 11:29, which states, "He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind." This phrase suggests that those who create discord or conflict will ultimately gain nothing of value. The term is most famously associated with the 1955 play by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee, which is a fictionalized account of the 1925 Scopes "Monkey" Trial, exploring themes of intellectual freedom and the conflict between science and religion.

we should value it because it symbols what your parents had and their favorite things passed on to you

The lesson of the story "Inherit the Wind" is the importance of freedom of thought and belief, and the dangers of ignorance and intolerance, particularly in the context of the Scopes Monkey Trial. It underscores the need for society to embrace scientific progress and intellectual curiosity, and to challenge dogma and superstition.

Temperament can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. While there may be a genetic component to temperament, it is also shaped by experiences and interactions throughout life. It is a complex interplay between nature and nurture.

"He that troubleth his own house" - whoever causes conflict between their own house/community/family

"Shall inherit the wind" - will inherit/get the resulting consequences that come with it.

1. How does the play explore the tension between science and religion?
2. What are some of the key arguments presented by the prosecution and defense in the courtroom?
3. How do characters like Henry Drummond and Matthew Harrison Brady represent different perspectives on the issue of evolution?
4. What is the significance of the setting of the play in the small town of Hillsboro, Tennessee?

In "Inherit the Wind," the town of Hillsboro is portrayed as a conservative, close-minded community that is resistant to change and new ideas. The residents are heavily influenced by religious dogma and are quick to condemn anyone who challenges their beliefs, as seen in the trial of Bertram Cates for teaching evolution in a local school. The town's response to the trial highlights the tensions that arise when traditional values clash with progressive thinking.

The proverb used in the play "Inherit the Wind" is "He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind." This line implies that those who bring chaos and conflict to their own lives will ultimately gain nothing of real value.

"Inherit the Wind" is a fictionalized account of the Scopes Monkey Trial, where John Scopes was found guilty of teaching evolution. Many believe it was not a fair trial as the judge restricted the defense's arguments and favored the prosecution. The trial was heavily influenced by public opinion and political agendas rather than a pursuit of justice.

We inherit ways of life through cultural practices, traditions, values, beliefs, and societal norms passed down from previous generations. This can include how we communicate, interact with others, view the world, and make decisions. Our inherited ways of life shape our identity and influence our behaviors and perspectives.

In the story "Inherit the Wind," the judge shows leniency towards Cates in sentencing him because he sympathizes with Cates' beliefs and the idea of intellectual freedom. The judge recognizes the importance of free speech and wants to send a message about the value of open discourse in society. Additionally, the judge may also feel that the case has garnered enough attention and that a harsh sentence would only add to the controversy surrounding it.

Rachel went to the courthouse in "Inherit the Wind" to support her father, Bert Cates, who was on trial for teaching evolution in a school. She wanted to stand by him and show her support during the trial.

In most jurisdictions, a witness to a will cannot inherit from that will because they may be seen as having a conflict of interest. This is to prevent any perception of potential undue influence or coercion on the testator. It is advisable to choose neutral witnesses who are not beneficiaries of the will.

In the play "Inherit the Wind," the controversy arises because Sillers is selected as the final juror after an impassioned closing argument from defense attorney Drummond. Many see this as an unethical move by Drummond to manipulate the system and potentially influence the outcome of the trial, leading to questions about the fairness and integrity of the legal process.

Drummond says that "man is on trial in Inherit the Wind" because the play examines the tension between the freedom of thought and the suppression of ideas, as well as the clash between fundamentalism and modernism. The trial serves as a symbolic representation of the larger societal debate between individual rights and state control.

In the play, Inherit the Wind:

the defense attorney (for Cates) is Drummond.

the prosecuting attorney (against Cates) is Brady.

In the real-life Scopes Trial:

the defense attorney (for Scopes) is Darrow.

the prosecuting attorney (against scopes) is Bryan.

Yes, if someone passes away without a will, their property will be distributed according to state law through a process called intestate succession. This means the house would be inherited by the deceased person's heirs as determined by the state's laws of intestacy.

Henry Drummond (Clarence Darrow in the real trial) defended the teacher, Bertram Cates, (John Scopes in the real trial) for teaching evolution.

Matthew Harrison Brady, a well-known and experienced prosecutor, represents the prosecution in the play "Inherit the Wind." He is depicted as a fervent fundamentalist Christian seeking to uphold the law and defend traditional beliefs.

The "Scopes Monkey Trial" is the nickname for the real-life trial.

The jury found Cates guilty as charged. Since this was the first trial of its kind, Cates was only charged a $100 fine. Drummond, unhappy with the verdict, appeals the case to a higher court, which sets Cates' bail at $500. E.K. Hornbeck, the new reporter, secretly pays the bail to the mayor, which allows Cates from jail.

The trial in "Inherit the Wind" had a polarizing effect on the town. It exposed deep-seated beliefs and divisions within the community, leading to tensions and conflicts among its residents. Ultimately, it challenged the town's norms and forced individuals to confront their prejudices and biases.

"Inherit the Wind" is often considered the greatest courtroom drama of the twentieth century due to its powerful depiction of the Scopes Monkey Trial, which tackled the controversial subject of evolution versus creationism. The play's themes of freedom of speech, intellectual freedom, and the clash between science and religion resonated with audiences and critics, solidifying its reputation as a landmark piece of American theater.

In "Inherit the Wind," the persecution of the educated refers to the prejudice and discrimination faced by those who promote scientific knowledge and rational thinking in the face of religious fundamentalism and anti-intellectualism. It highlights the challenges faced by individuals who seek to challenge established beliefs and push for progress and enlightenment in society.