Topdog/Underdog

Suzan-Lori Parks play Topdog/Underdog is a darkly comic fable of brotherly love and family identity. It tells the story of Lincoln and Booth, two brothers whose names were given to them as a joke, foretelling a lifetime of sibling rivalry and resentment.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 128 pages
\n Publication date: 09 January 2020
\n Publisher: Nick Hern Books
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A captivating and darkly comic fable of brotherly love and family identity, Suzan-Lori Parks' play Topdog/Underdog has been recognized with the prestigious 2002 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Set in a world where names hold immense significance, the play revolves around Lincoln and Booth, two brothers whose names were bestowed upon them as a playful jest, setting the stage for a lifelong rivalry and resentment. Haunted by their past, the brothers are compelled to face the harsh reality of their uncertain future.

Topdog/Underdog made its debut at the Joseph Papp Public Theater in New York in 2001, and it later graced the stage of the Royal Court Theatre in London in 2003. Through its powerful storytelling and insightful exploration of familial dynamics, the play has garnered critical acclaim and has become a staple in the theatrical landscape.

In Topdog/Underdog, Suzan-Lori Parks delves into the complex relationship between brothers Lincoln and Booth. Born with the names that foretell a lifetime of rivalry, the brothers are forced to navigate the treacherous waters of their family history. Lincoln, the older brother, is a charismatic and ambitious man who has risen to the top of his profession. He is determined to succeed at all costs, even if it means stepping on his brother's toes. Booth, on the other hand, is a more introspective and sensitive individual who struggles to find his place in the world. He is haunted by the memory of their father, who abandoned them as children, and he longs for a sense of belonging and acceptance.

As the play unfolds, Lincoln and Booth's paths intertwine in a series of dramatic and comedic scenes. They compete for the affection of their mother, who is torn between her love for both brothers. They engage in a fierce battle for dominance, both in their professional lives and in their personal relationships. However, beneath their rivalry, there is a deep bond of love and loyalty that cannot be broken.

One of the key themes of Topdog/Underdog is the importance of family identity. The brothers are constantly trying to define themselves and their place in the world, often at the expense of their relationships with each other. They are shaped by their past experiences and the expectations of their family and society. However, they are also capable of breaking free from these constraints and forging their own paths.

Through its vivid characters and compelling storyline, Topdog/Underdog offers a powerful exploration of the human condition. It challenges the audience to think about the choices we make and the consequences of our actions. It also sheds light on the complexities of sibling relationships and the ways in which they can both enrich and complicate our lives.

In conclusion, Suzan-Lori Parks' play Topdog/Underdog is a masterpiece of theater that explores the depths of brotherly love and family identity. Through its powerful storytelling and insightful exploration of the human condition, the play has earned its place as a classic of contemporary theater. Whether you are a fan of drama or simply seeking a thought-provoking and entertaining experience, Topdog/Underdog is a must-see.

\n Weight: 142g\n
Dimension: 77 x 197 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781854597649\n \n