QUESTIONS

1. Compare and contrast Bertram Cates and Rachel Brown 2. Compare and contrast Matthew Brady and Henry Drummond. 3. Compare and contrast the happenings in the play with the actual happenings surrounding the Scopes trial.

4. Trace the reaction of the town to Matthew Harrison Brady, from the first act to the conclusion of the play. What specifically has caused his fall from acceptance?

5. Trace the reaction of the town to Henry Drummond, from the first act to the conclusion of the play. 6. What specifically causes his acceptance?

7. What is the function of Hornbeck in the play? 8. Why is the play a comedy even though Cates is pronounced guilty?

9. Why is Drummond the protagonist of the play rather than Cates?

10. What purpose does Rachel play in the play? 11. Summarize the sermon of Reverend Brown. What does it reveal about the minister and his congregation? How is it consistent with other events in the play?

13. Who are the two underdogs in the play? How are they similar? 14. Summarize Drummond's cross-examination of Brady. Why is it the climax of the play? What is Drummond's primary appeal in that scene for convincing the jury of his ideas?

15. What is the significance of Rachel Brown deciding to leave with Cates at the end of the play?

Table of Contents | Printable Version