Inherit the Wind
By Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. LeeInherit the Wind is the dramatization of the Scopes Monkey Trial of the 1930's, which challenged local legislation banning the teaching of Darwin's theory of evolution in classrooms. The lawyers were two of two of the greatest men of their time, and both were wonderful orators. Brady speaks now about the first witness, a youg boy who testifies about the defendant's teaching of Darwin.
BRADY:
Your Honor, I have no intention of making a speech. There is no need. I am sure that everyone on the jury, everyone within the sound of this boy's voice, is moved by his tragic confusion. He has been taught that he wiggled up like an animal from the filth and the muck below!
(Continuing fervently, the spirit is upon him.)
I say that these Bible-haters, these "Evil-utionists," are brewers of poison. And the legislation of this sovereign state has had the wisdom to demand that the peddlers of poison - in bottles or in books - clearly label the products they attempt to sell!
(There is applause. Brady points at the boy.)
I tell you, if this law is not upheld, this boy will become one of a generation, shorn of its faith by the teachings of Godless science! But if the full penalty of the law is meted out to Bertram Cates, the faithful the whole world over, who are watching us here, and listening to our every word, will call this courtroom blessed!
(Applause. Dramatically, Brady moves to his chair. Condescendingly, he waves to Drummond - the defense attorney.)
Your witness, sir.
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