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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. The Storekeeper thinks opinions are what?

2. Who notices the train when Brady is arriving?

3. Where does the opening of Act One take place?

4. Drummond says that killing a wife is not as bad as killing what?

5. In Act One, who makes a secret visit to Hillsboro Jail?

Short Essay Questions

1. Brady is portrayed as a somewhat gluttonous character throughout the play. As gluttony appears in the Bible as a sin, this demonstrates that Brady is willing to judge others on their sins but is unwilling to chastise himself. Why?

2. Why is it ironic that Reverend Brown is in a bad mood the first time the audience meets him, yet he scolds others for not having community spirit?

3. Why does Brady suggest Howard may become Godless if Cates is not found guilty?

4. After collapsing, what speech does Brady give as he is being carried away?

5. Why does Drummond take both the Bible and the Origin of Species when he leaves town?

6. Although Hornbeck is on Drummond's side of the case, Drummond does not support him. Why?

7. Describe the character, Rachel.

8. When Bannister states that he wants the front seat in the jury box because "its going to be quite a show", what does this say about his opinion of the trial?

9. Why do the workers choose to leave the "Read Your Bible" sign up on the courthouse? What does this signify?

10. When Reverend Brown asks God to curse his daughter for her defense of Cates, what does this say about his character?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

When Drummond is appointed "temporary Honorary Colonel" by the Mayor, Drummond is shocked to hear that his title will be permanent when the "right forms are signed". Drummond is troubled by this as he, like Brady, did not serve time in the military. Analyze why the Mayor's power to bestow this undeserved honor is significant to the story.

Essay Topic 2

Based on the text, choose one of the following characters and analyze their personal relationship with God or religion.

- Cates.

- Drummond.

- Reverend Brown.

Essay Topic 3

Drummond and Brady are revealed to be old friends who have fallen away from their friendship with one another. Answer the following:

Part 1) When are Brady and Drummond friends? What do they have in common?

Part 2) Why do they grow apart? Who regrets the distance?

Part 3) At any point in Inherit the Wind, is there hope of rekindling the friendship? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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