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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Darwin's "Origin of Species" teach?

2. Prior to Brady's arrival, Melinda sells what?

3. Bert Cates is in jail for what crime?

4. While in jail, what is Cates surprised by?

5. How is Brady's physicality described?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the purpose behind Brady asking if Drummond's suspenders are fashionable in Chicago?

2. Although Cates lost, it is said that he won. Why?

3. At the end of Act One, Drummond is left alone on the stage. What does this moment signify?

4. Hornbeck refers to the prayer meeting as a show. What moments so far in the play have also created a show-like atmosphere, and why?

5. Why is the appearance of a monkey important in Act One?

6. When Rachel's father turns on her, who defends her? Does this make this character more likable?

7. Hornbeck says progress has made ordinary people obsolete. What is meant by this statement?

8. Why does Drummond ask Brady if the story of Jonah, found in the Bible, should be taken literally? What is Drummond suggesting when he asks this question?

9. Define Drummond's word "clock-stoppers".

10. When Rachel visits Cates in jail, what does she urge him to do, and why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are moments in Inherit the Wind where Drummond is referred to as the devil.

Part 1) How is the devil defined in this context?

Part 2) Who considers Drummond to be the devil?

Part 3) Do you agree with this nickname? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Out of the following three characters, determine who you feel has the most to win or lose with Cates' court case and why. Back up your theory with specific examples from the text.

- Reverend Brown.

- Brady.

- Cates.

Essay Topic 3

Based on evidence from the play, explain the economic state of Hillsboro. Argue for or against the idea that religion is a significant form of commerce for Hillsboro. Cite specific examples from the text.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 669 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample