Topic > Influence of the Cold War and on Literature - 998

The era of McCarthyism from 1945 to 1963 was a time of great tension and fear in American history. Societal emotions influenced the writing of that time, resulting in two of the most powerful works ever written: Inherit the Wind and The Crucible. These stories reflect the attitudes and characters of what was prevalent in the world at the time they were written. Inherit the Wind, written by Robert E. Lee and ___ Lawrence, has a number of characters that mirror the world during McCarthyism. The greatest similarity between Inherit the Wind and its historical context is evident in the character of Brady and the personality of Senator Joseph McCarthy. Joseph McCarthy displayed a compelling style of delivering speeches that defined an era. According to historians, “…his current path was the path of righteousness. his delivery was emphatic and powerful. His fist pounded the pulpit and his voice growled alert." ("Joseph McCarthy as the Epithet of an Era") Brady's character showcases the charisma and strength that McCarthy used with his words to make the people would listen to his opinions. In the play, Brady seems to translate Miller's impression of McCarthy. When preparing to give a speech, Brady's charismatic quality is described to the reader: “[Brady] seems to carry a built-in spotlight. ..[Brady] raises his hand. Obediently, the crowd falls into a hushed, anticipatory silence. (Lawrence, Lee 19) Brady's power as a public figure mimics Joseph McCarthy's unmistakable strength as a speaker story is known to be one of immense power and manipulation of the emotions of the masses. The Crucible, written by Arthur Miller, includes similarities to its historical context that lie in Salem's attitude moral of these comedies is an era of tension and fear. Inherit the Wind's character, Brady, reflects McCarthy's power and charisma, while the town of Hillsboro reflects the atmosphere of suspicion surrounding a constantly looming topic. Crucible parallels generally imply similar hysteria of contrasting societies. There is no doubt that both stories were imprinted by their historical contexts. Works cited "McCarthyism and "The Great Fear" which frames the climate of the American Cold War". Joseph McCarthy as the epithet of an era. Page No. Press. Secondary."Race for the Superbomb. The Korean War | PBS." People and events. American experience. Network. November 18, 2013. .Schwartz, Dr. Fred. "On brainwashing and language." You can trust communists (be communists). Long Beach, California: 1960. Primary.