From the play, "Inherit the Wind"

What does it mean, when Hornbeck refers to Cates as

"boy-Socrates, latter-day Dreyfus, Romeo with a biology book?"

Why would he make those references?

He is talking about his being an idealist.... a philosopher... not dealing with the reality of the times. Look up Dreyfus and Socrates to get an idea of how they thought and you can then compare.
That is a super play, works really well in-the-round.

Thanks!

wehhehewewhe

Hornbeck's reference to Cates as "boy-Socrates, latter-day Dreyfus, Romeo with a biology book" is meant to be a sarcastic and mocking description of Cates' character and beliefs. By comparing Cates to Socrates, Dreyfus, and Romeo, Hornbeck is implying that Cates sees himself as a misunderstood intellectual and a romantic figure, instead of confronting the reality of the situation.

To understand Hornbeck's references, it would be helpful to look up some background information on Socrates, Dreyfus, and Romeo:

1. Socrates: Socrates was a classical Greek philosopher known for his Socratic method of questioning and challenging established beliefs. He was seen as an intellectual who was courageous in challenging conventional wisdom and was eventually sentenced to death for his controversial ideas.

2. Dreyfus Affair: The Dreyfus Affair refers to a highly controversial political and legal scandal that occurred in France during the late 19th and early 20th century. Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish French Army officer, was wrongfully accused and convicted of treason. The case symbolized divisions within society and exposed issues of anti-Semitism and injustice.

3. Romeo: Romeo is a character from William Shakespeare's tragedy, "Romeo and Juliet." He is portrayed as a young, passionate, and impulsive lover who becomes entangled in a feud between two families. Hornbeck's mention of Romeo suggests that he sees Cates as an idealistic romantic who prioritizes his personal beliefs and desires over practical considerations.

By understanding the background of these references, you will be able to appreciate Hornbeck's mockery and the way he is characterizing Cates' approach to the events of the play.