Inherit the Wind is a 1955 stage version of the 1925 Scopes "Monkey" Trial. In the real-life trial, John Scopes, a substitute high school teacher, was accused of violating the state of Tennessee's "Butler Act" by teaching the theory of evolution in a state-funded public school. This book is set in the sleepy southern town of Hillsburo, US. The town's torpor is disrupted by the arrival of Matthew Harrison Brady for the prosecution and Henry Drummond for the defense. The event is reported by E. K. Hornbeck. Most of the action takes place in the courtroom between Brady and Drummond.
The best parts of this play are the science and religion puns. For example, there is a character called "Mrs. Krebs" named after the Krebs Cycle, a scientific process directly related to evolution. These little references added smart humor.
The many symbols and motifs added depth to the play. For example, people named "clock-stoppers" represent Southerners still clinging to the Bible. Conversely, the radio symbolizes Northern believers of evolution.
Overall, this piece of fiction stands out because it brings to life the way that new ideas can influence people's opinions. Five out of five stars.
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