Inherit the Wind | Quotes

Bertram Cates explains to Rachel Brown that his support of Darwin does not negate belief in the Bible. He is suggesting that the two could be compatible, and that Darwin's theory might actually be the miracle of Creation described in the Bible.

The "Bible Belt" refers to areas of the southern and Midwestern United States where Protestant fundamentalism is widely practiced. By calling Hillsboro the "buckle" on that belt, Hornbeck is saying it epitomizes that group of people and their belief system.

Brady uses a powerful metaphor—Truth as a sword and Science as a sinner—to appeal to his fundamentalist supporters.

Drummond explains to Rachel Brown that only by seeing the absurdity of a situation can a person retain the ability to keep it in perspective.

Brady calms the Reverend Brown with this biblical verse after the man attacks his own daughter. He cautions Brown that "it is possible to be overzealous, to destroy that which you hope to save."

Brady wonders aloud to Drummond why Drummond has moved so far away from him, both ideologically and personally. Drummond suggests that it is Brady who has caused the rift by remaining entrenched in old traditions and beliefs rather than entertaining more progressive ways of thinking.

This is the cornerstone of Drummond's argument and his mission for being in Hillsboro. He is not just defending Cates. He is attacking an unjust law that prevents new ideas from being examined and championed.

Drummond argues that there can be no absolutes. He believes that right and wrong are artificial constructs created by people, and that we should instead be guided by the truth—though even truth is open to interpretation.

Drummond encapsulates his belief that the holiest thing of all is a person's ability to think, and that a new idea is a monument to that miracle.

Drummond helps the jury grasp that progress has always come at a price. However, the pain and inconveniences we must endure as a result are well worth the benefits of moving forward.

Drummond simultaneously acknowledges the value of the Bible while stressing that there are other, perhaps equally worthwhile, books and ideas worth considering.

Drummond explains to Cates that "this fire," his case, represents something much larger than his accusers realized. It represents the right of people to champion new and unpopular ideas. As such it has captured the attention of the entire country.

Rachel's statement highlights the danger of narrow-minded communities. If people are afraid of the repercussions that might come from presenting new ideas, they may stop thinking at all.

This is one of Hornbeck's final insults to Brady. He is saying that the harder someone tries to capture the attention of others, the more likely it is that the person is already a failure.

Drummond shows his own compassion and empathy by recognizing that no matter what Brady had become, he once had the character, passion, and beliefs of a truly great man.