Inherit the Wind is a powerful courtroom drama that explores the clash between science and religion. Based on the real-life Scopes “Monkey” Trial of 1925, the play features a number of thought-provoking quotes that continue to resonate today.
One of the most memorable quotes from Inherit the Wind is delivered by the defense attorney, Henry Drummond, played by Spencer Tracy in the 1960 film adaptation. He states, “Progress has never been a bargain. You have to pay for it. Sometimes I think there’s a man who sits behind a counter and says, ‘All right, you can have a telephone, but you lose privacy and the charm of distance.'” This quote highlights the idea that progress often comes at a cost and raises questions about the role of technology in our lives.
Another impactful quote from the play comes from Matthew Harrison Brady, the prosecution attorney played by Fredric March. He passionately declares, “I do not think about things I do not think about!” This quote encapsulates the narrow-mindedness and refusal to consider alternative perspectives that can accompany dogmatic religious beliefs.
However, it is the exchange between Drummond and Brady that truly encapsulates the central conflict of the play. When Drummond asks Brady if he ever considered that he might be wrong, Brady responds with conviction, “I’m right! I’m always right, because I’m the righteous one!” This quote speaks to the danger of unwavering certainty and the unwillingness to engage in critical thinking and self-reflection.
Inherit the Wind continues to spark debate and conversation about the tension between science and religion, the importance of intellectual curiosity, and the dangers of rigid belief systems. These memorable quotes serve as reminders of the timeless themes explored in the play and continue to provoke thought and reflection.
Unforgettable Sayings from Inherit the Wind
“All motion is relative. Perhaps it is you who have moved away–by standing still.”
“Fanaticism and ignorance is forever busy, and needs feeding. And soon, your Honor, with banners flying and with drums beating we’ll be marching backward, BACKWARD, through the glorious ages of that Sixteenth Century when bigots burned the man who dared bring enlightenment and intelligence to the human mind!”
“An idea is a greater monument than a cathedral.”
“Gentlemen, progress has never been a bargain. You’ve got to pay for it. Sometimes I think there’s a man who sits behind a counter and says, ‘Alright, you can have a telephone, but you’ll lose privacy and the charm of distance, Madam. Madam, you may vote, but at a price. You lose the right to retreat behind the powder puff or your petticoat. Mister, you may conquer the air, but the birds will lose their wonder and the clouds will smell of gasoline.'”
“The only immortality you’re going to get is through the success of your children.”
The Power of Words in Inherit the Wind
Throughout the play Inherit the Wind, the power of words is consistently emphasized. The characters understand the weight and impact that their words hold, whether they are advocating for scientific progress or defending their religious beliefs.
One memorable quote that showcases the power of words comes from the character of Henry Drummond, a defense attorney representing the teacher on trial for teaching evolution. He states, “But that’s the whole thinking of the Bible-thumpers! You want to reach the ear of the populace? Then, for sweet charity’s sake, don’t use four-syllable words!” This quote highlights how words can be tailored to manipulate public opinion, encapsulating the power of language to sway minds and hearts.
Another quote that speaks to the power of words is from Matthew Harrison Brady, the prosecutor in the trial. He says, “I have never read such twisted, miserable, profane misinterpretations of God’s holy word!” This quote illustrates how words can be used to insult and demean others, showing the negative consequences of using language to incite hatred and judgment.
The characters in Inherit the Wind understand that words hold the power to shape public opinion, create unity or division, and influence personal beliefs. By exploring the power of words, the play prompts us to consider our own responsibility in using language effectively and ethically.
In conclusion, Inherit the Wind serves as a reminder of the power of words and the impact they can have on individuals and society as a whole. It encourages us to think critically about the language we use and the messages we convey, recognizing the immense power our words hold.
Wisdom and Controversy in Inherit the Wind
As one delves into the compelling play, Inherit the Wind, the themes of wisdom and controversy become apparent throughout. The script beautifully captures the essence of these concepts through thought-provoking dialogue and powerful monologues.
The play explores the clash between fundamentalism and intellectualism during the historic Scopes Monkey Trial in 1925. The character of Henry Drummond, an attorney representing the defendant, brings wisdom to the forefront. He challenges the status quo and urges society to embrace scientific progress and critical thinking. One memorable quote by Drummond encapsulates his perspective:
“Gentlemen, progress has never been a bargain. You have to pay for it. Sometimes I think there’s a man who sits behind a counter and says, ‘Alright, you can have a telephone, but you lose privacy and the charm of distance. Mr. ___ invented a car, but we’re prone to die more often, and die more horribly, in a car than on a horse. And look at television. Just a box with a screen. But we can put more kinds of shows on it than Shakespeare ever dreamed of…
…There is no curse on inquisitiveness and no blessing on the search for truth.”
This quote speaks to the importance of progress and the need for society to constantly question and explore. Drummond’s words challenge the narrow-mindedness of those who cling to tradition and reject scientific advancements.
However, Drummond’s wisdom is met with controversy in the form of Reverend Jeremiah Brown, a devout and passionate believer in the literal interpretation of the Bible. His fervent speeches and unyielding faith create tension and animosity within the courtroom. One such quote from Reverend Brown exemplifies his controversial stance:
“I am against this man Drummond. He’s attempting to overthrow institutions that have been in existence since man crawled out of the slime.”
This quote highlights the clash between tradition and progress, with Reverend Brown vehemently opposing any challenges to established beliefs.
Inherit the Wind masterfully weaves together wisdom and controversy to highlight the ongoing struggle between science and religion. The play forces us to examine our own beliefs and biases, and challenges us to question the world around us. It serves as a reminder that wisdom can be found in the most unexpected places and that controversy often leads to growth and enlightenment.
Thought-Provoking Quotes from Inherit the Wind
“It’s not about science versus religion. It’s about the right to think.”
– Henry Drummond
“The Bible is a book. It’s a good book, but it’s not the only book.”
– E.K. Hornbeck
“Fanaticism and ignorance is forever busy, and needs feeding.”
– Bertram Cates
“The individual human mind. In a child’s power to master the multiplication table, there is more sanctity than in all your shouted ‘Amens!’ and ‘Holy, Holies!'”
– Henry Drummond
“Why is it that a jury can find a man guilty for stealing a loaf of bread, but when it comes to the deepest questions of the human race, we call it a ‘doubt’? But, sir, there is no doubt. There is only indifference.”
– Henry Drummond
“Progress has never been a bargain. You have to pay for it.”
– Henry Drummond
“We must not abandon faith! Faith is the most important thing!”
– Matthew Harrison Brady
“All motion is relative. Maybe it’s you who’ve moved away by standing still.”
– Henry Drummond
“He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind.”
– Reverend Jeremiah Brown
Intellectual Discourse in Inherit the Wind
The play Inherit the Wind is known for its thought-provoking dialogue which delves into the clash between science and religion. The intellectual discourse that takes place throughout the play explores various perspectives on evolution, freedom of thought, and the role of education. Here are some memorable quotes that highlight the intellectual discourse in Inherit the Wind:
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“The individual human mind. In a child’s power to master the multiplication table, there is more sanctity than in all your shouted ‘amens’ and ‘holy holies’ and ‘hosannas.’ An idea is a greater monument than a cathedral.” |
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“Governor, if you want to hold on to your office, you’ve got to play politics. You’ve got to be a politician. You’ve got to compromise. You’ve got to keep those people behind you. You’ve got to be a leader.” |
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“Progress has never been a bargain. You have to pay for it. Sometimes, I think there’s a man who sits behind a counter and says, ‘Alright, you can have a telephone, but you lose privacy and the charm of distance.'” |
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“Theology is not an exact science. It’s a science of the mind. You mustn’t confuse the mind with the liver.” |
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“I say that you cannot administer a wicked law impartially. You can only destroy. You can only punish.” |
These quotes reflect the intellectual discourse in Inherit the Wind and serve as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking, open-mindedness, and the pursuit of knowledge. The play encourages audiences to question established beliefs and engage in meaningful dialogue to create a better understanding of the world around us.
Memorable Lines from Inherit the Wind
“Fanaticism and ignorance is forever busy and needs feeding. And soon, your Honor, with banners flying and with drums beating we’ll be marching backward, BACKWARD, through the glorious ages of that Sixteenth Century when bigots burned the man who dared bring enlightenment and intelligence to the human mind!” – Henry Drummond
“I know but one prayer: ‘Lord, save us all from a people that live in a land where their rulers are chosen in mockery, where their judges are appointed in contempt, where truth is not permitted to defend itself, and where slaughter is called justice.” – Matthew Harrison Brady
“How do you expect to be a considered a civilized society if you’re afraid to listen to new ideas?” – E.K. Hornbeck
“Even before I met you, Lieutenant, I knew that you were a rebel, a troublemaker.” – Henry Drummond
The Clash of Ideas in Inherit the Wind
Inherit the Wind is a thought-provoking play that explores the clash of ideas between science and religion. Set in the backdrop of the Scopes Monkey Trial, the play examines the conflict between evolution and creationism.
One of the key quotes that reflects this clash of ideas is spoken by Henry Drummond, the defense attorney for the accused teacher, Bertram Cates. He says, “I say that you cannot administer a local or national government, you cannot build roads, you cannot even honor your father and mother without science!” This quote highlights the importance of science in a practical sense and questions the validity of religious beliefs that contradict scientific progress.
On the other hand, the prosecution, represented by Matthew Harrison Brady, argues that the Bible should be taken literally and that any belief in evolution is a direct rejection of God’s word. He proclaims, “We must not abandon faith! Faith is the most important thing!” This quote reflects the religious belief that faith should override scientific evidence.
Throughout the play, these contrasting ideas are presented through the various characters, including the townspeople who strongly adhere to their religious beliefs and the scientists who advocate for the teaching of evolution. The clash of ideas is further intensified by the media attention and public sentiment surrounding the trial.
Inherit the Wind serves as a reminder of the ongoing clash between science and religion, and the need for society to find a balance between the two. It challenges deeply-held beliefs and questions the role of faith in the face of scientific progress. The play forces the audience to confront their own preconceptions and consider the consequences of blindly adhering to dogma.
Inspiring Quotes from Inherit the Wind
1. “The loneliest word in the world is ‘if’.”
2. “It’s the duty of a newspaper to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”
3. “Faith is the most powerful thing in the world.”
4. “You’re the only expert on your own opinion.”
5. “Truth is harsh, my friend. But it’s much harsher if you try to ignore it.”
6. “You can’t reason with a mob.”
7. “We must not be afraid to question, to look for the truth.”
8. “Progress has never been a bargain. You have to pay for it.”
9. “One of the greatest qualities of man is curiosity.”
10. “The freedom to think is not safe, but it’s precious.”