In literature, an “everyman” has come to mean an ordinary individual that the audience or reader easily identifies with, but who has no outstanding abilities or attributes. An everyman hero is one who is placed in extraordinary circumstances and acts with heroic qualities. While lacking the talent of the classical hero, they exhibit sound moral judgment and selflessness in the face of adversity.
At the beginning of the play, Rachel pleads with Bert to change his mind and admit what he did was wrong. She asks why he can’t be on the right side of things, to which Bert replies, “Your father’s side.” He knows that he is going against the town, the town’s religious leader, and religion itself, but he also knows he needs to stand up for his belief that he did nothing wrong.
After the jury selection is over, Bert has second thoughts about going through with the trial. He thinks that everyone is looking at him like he is a murderer. Drummond tells Bert that if he honestly thinks he committed a criminal act, he will pack up and go home. After a moment of thought, Bert knows he can’t quit.
Rachel asks Drummond for his honest opinion as to whether or not Bert is a wicked man. Drummond replies that Bert is a good man, and even a great man, because it takes a brave man to be a pariah to his community for standing up for what he believes in. It takes a smart man to stand up and say, “I don’t know the answer!”
After watching Rachel badgered on the stand, and having her words twisted by Brady to the point that she becomes emotionally distraught, rather than allow Drummond to cross-examine her to correct the record, Bert tells him to let her go. He is upset by the pain this has caused her.
In the end, Bert is unsure of whether or not he has won, because he was found guilty. Drummond tells him that his perseverance in this case will give strength to the next person who has to stand up against a law that restricts his freedoms to think and to speak. Bert has stood up for the very freedoms every American should expect, and enjoy, even the right to be wrong. That is a victory.
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows how Bert can be considered an everyday hero.
Foster critical thinking by dividing students into groups and assigning them to argue whether Bert or another character best represents an everyman hero. Classroom debates encourage students to use evidence from the play and develop public speaking skills.
Ask students to find specific quotes and scenes that showcase Bert’s bravery, compassion, and determination. Highlighting textual evidence helps students practice close reading and strengthens their arguments.
Prompt students to brainstorm modern examples of everyday heroes in their communities or in the news. Making connections deepens understanding and personal relevance.
Have students write a short reflection on what qualities make an everyday hero and how their perspective may have changed. Reflective writing reinforces learning and encourages self-awareness.
Bert Cates is considered an everyday hero in Inherit the Wind because he stands up for his beliefs, shows moral courage, and demonstrates compassion, even when facing adversity and public criticism. His actions inspire others to defend their rights and freedoms.
Bert shows bravery by refusing to back down from his principles, even when pressured by the community, religious leaders, and loved ones. He risks his reputation and freedom to defend what he believes is right.
Bert displays upstanding character by accepting the consequences of his actions, treating others with respect, and remaining honest throughout his trial. He values truth and integrity over personal comfort.
Bert’s determination is crucial because it empowers him to continue his fight for intellectual freedom and sets an example for others. His perseverance helps challenge unjust laws and inspires future change.
Teachers can guide students to identify Bert's heroism by analyzing key scenes, discussing his motivations and moral choices, and encouraging students to create storyboards or character maps that highlight his everyday hero qualities.