inherit_the_wind

The Real Trial of The Century:
The Scopes Trial and
Inherit the Wind

Introduction

"Humans alone among mammals are self-conscious. They know themselves in relationship to other people. and to the objects around them. Their self-concept is shaped by what happened in the past, even when unknown, and also by their perception of what happened. Much that one never thinks about is nonetheless a product of the past, including basic beliefs and preferences. Only when in doubt, or challenged, are humans likely to spend much time thinking about who they are. At that point they become historians, in the sense that they consciously look back to the near or distant past. Only by doing this can they clarify their own identity, as individuals, and as part of a family, clan, nation, or religious community." --Paul K. Conkin, When All The Gods Trembled (1998)

Think about Conkin's words. They will come back to you as you read and research during this unit. Do you agree with these words?

Tasks

Below are the tasks that you will need to complete for this unit:

1. Keep a vocabulary journal.
2. Research and take notes on the history of the scopes trial
3. Read Inherit the Wind, a drama by Lawrence and Lee
4. Write an essay on one of the following topics:
     A. Why is Matthew Harrison Brady (William Jennings Bryan) right?
     B. Why do people need to belong to a group?
     C. Why do people need to believe in something?
     D. Explain the struggle between individual and group.
5. Take part in the Think.com discussions.
6. Maintain weekly journal in Think.com

Schedule and Assignments

Assignments

Class Schedule