Inherit the Wind Religion

Did we come from monkeys, or were we created from the dust? That's the big question at the center of the trial in Inherit the Wind, and it's a question that many people believe pits religion against science. Do you think it's possible to reconcile the two? Or are they forever condemned to an eternal death match? This play suggests religion and science can co-exist—Drummond holds the Bible and The Origin of Species together, balancing them, at the end of the play. Plus, Inherit the Wind shows that some non-believers can be just as stubborn and judgmental as some religious leaders; the play shows us that these are flaws of mankind, not any particular man or woman.

Questions About Religion

1. Do you think that Drummond is a religious man? Why or why not?
2. What role does religion play in the life of the community of Hillsboro?
3. How does religion affect the outcome of the trial, if at all?
4. How do you understand Rachel's religious beliefs? Bert's?

Chew on This

Religion is made out to be an old-fashioned tradition that impedes progress in Inherit the Wind.

The play shows that religion and science can coexist. It's all of our jobs to figure out how.