[What Is This Feeling?]

Hey, everyone! Remember me? I've decided to come back for a bit. Anyway, I'm currently in my high school's production of Inherit the Wind, in the role of E.K. Hornbeck. I'm quite excited to play him. I've been doing my research on his real life counterpart H.L Mencken. He was also quite cynical and pejorative.

Now, after I read and saw the play, I did research on scholars' opinons on Hornbeck. Obviously, some people believe he is another foil for Brady and Drummond. He is on the exact opposite side as Brady, yet he is so staunch in his beliefs. He differs from Drummond, because he is much more absolute. Other scholars see him more as a chorus character, whose witty verse serves for insightful commentary and comic relief.

What do you guys think about Hornbeck? Beneath his cynicism, is he just a very passionate man who uses his attitude as a protective mechanism? Or is he just amoral? Does he just care about his job and getting his story? Do you think there is a deeper reason for his contempt for all?

Thank- you for your replies!