This scene is the climactic scene in the play. While questioning Howard, a student in Cates' class, Brady seizes the opportunity to give a speech defending the Butler Law and the common people against "Evil-utionists," "Bible-haters," and "the teachings of Godless Science." He is confident as the spectators applaud, showing their support.
As Brady's foil, Drummond stands alone. The stage directions state that, " . . . the courtroom seems to resent . . . " his boldness and relaxed demeanor. Drummond is not in awe of Brady and does not hesitate to point out his flaws. Still, his intent is not to destroy Brady but to crush the narrow-minded thinking that Brady represents and promotes. The theme of the play, as well as Lawrence and Lee's viewpoint, is evident as Drummond cross-examines Howard, establishing that everyone "has the right to think.
When the judge says that " . . . the right to think is not on trial . . . ," he is reminding Drummond — and the audience — that Hillsboro is a southern fundamentalist town. When Drummond asks Howard whether, simply because they are not mentioned in the Bible, modern conveniences are "sinful" or "instruments of the Devil," he is establishing that the Bible does not have all the answers. At this point, Brady accuses Drummond of confusing material things with "spiritual realities" and, consequently, confusing Howard. Brady makes clear that he is concerned with what is right. Drummond is explicit when he responds that truth is his main concern. Here, Lawrence and Lee foreshadow the future as Howard "stares at his newfound idol," Drummond.
