Inherit The Wind Themes

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One of the many notable trademarks of classic literature is the meaningful messages and themes they contain. Not only can lessons in works of literature amuse, but they can also educate and leave a lasting impression on readers from all walks of life. This is evident through the classic play Inherit the Wind by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee, which uses numerous themes to retell the real-life scenario of the Scopes Monkey Trial. Among the countless existing themes in the story, there are a few dominant themes that recur in the play, one of which is that things are not always as they seem. Through its intriguing list of main characters and events, Inherit the Wind reveals the theme that one must look beyond the surface to seek the truth. …show more content…
On the exterior, Brady takes on the form of a benign giant, a holy man, and a fearless warrior -- all things that represent good and fight evil. However, underneath that facade of benevolence and heroism is a self-serving man who does not hesitate to manipulate and act for his own selfish gains. Brady’s manipulative and scheming side is revealed at the welcome party, where he swiftly catches onto Rachel and craftily lures her into providing him with critical evidence against Cates on the trial. Recognizing how desperate Rachel is to seek out an understanding ally, Brady smoothly tells her the words she needs to hear: “Think of me as a friend, Rachel. And tell me what troubles you” (Lawrence and Lee 25). Afterwards, Brady does not waver in betraying Rachel in the least bit, mercilessly pressing her to take the witness stand and speak out against her boyfriend. Another instance where Brady’s true self is hidden beneath a beautiful lie is the great orator’s true purpose for participating in the trial. Contrary to the popular belief of the townspeople, Brady, the “people’s champion” did not come to the small town of Hillsboro simply to advocate the Bible and speak out against a sinner. Just as Hornbeck states, “Matthew Harrison Brady came here To find himself a stump to shout from. That’s all” (34). This remark entails that Brady’s primary purpose for participating …show more content…
Such is evident when one examines all the losses suffered by Brady, the main figure of the prosecution. Not only does Brady lose his reputation as a respectable orator and leader through the trial, he also loses his overwhelming popularity among the people of Hillsboro. Upon his arrival in the small town, Brady is greeted with certain success and the support of all the townspeople. However, as the trial progresses, the support in the audience gradually shifts from Brady of the prosecution to Drummond of the defense. An example of the shifting support during the trial is when the most of the audience bursts out laughing at Drummond’s joking comments on Brady’s ability to think. Not to mention that among the precious things that Brady lost in the trial was his life. One the other hand, Cates, the defendant who is proclaimed guilty has gained millions of supporters through the trial, one of the many is his very own girlfriend. After the announcement of the verdict, Drummond cheers up the bewildered Cates and clears up the real victor of the trial. When Cates asks his attorney if he won or lost, Drummond replies, “What jury? Twelve men? Millions of people will say you won. They’ll read in the papers tonight that you smashed a bad law” (122). Another thing that proves the defense is the real victor is the propagation and
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