Rose
How does Rose’s role in the family compare to Troy’s?
Rose is the emotional center and caregiver, Troy sees himself as the provider and authority figure
“Them numbers don’t know nobody. I don’t know why you fool with them…You ain’t doing nothing but throwing your money away.”
Troy
How does Troy’s past influence his present actions?
Because Troy faced racism and poverty, he is now very protective and doesn’t trust easily, which affects how he treats his family and makes decisions.
How long has Bono known Troy?
They met in prison and have been friends for over 30 years.
Rose confronts Troy about his affair in Alberta‘s pregnancy. Rose is hurt and questions Troy‘s betrayal, making a turning point in the relationship.
Act Two Scene One
How does Rose cope with Troy’s betrayal?
Rose finds strength in the community and in her faith
“You're gonna drink yourself to death. You don’t need to be drinking like that.”
Rose
What are Troy’s main motivations in life?
Troy is driven by a need to provide for his family, gain respect in a world that has often denied him, and leave legacies.
What is Bono’s attitude towards Troy’s affair?
Bono cautions that his actions are ruining his relationship with Rose and warns him about the potential consequences of this.
Troy and Bono talk about Troy‘s affair. Bono warns Troy about the consequences and emphasizes the importance of loyalty marriage.
Act Two Scene One
What is Rose’s reaction to Troy’s death?
Rose chooses to focus on raising Raynell and finding purpose in her motherhood.
Yes ma’am, I got plums. You ask me how I sell them. Oh ten cents apiece. Three for a quarter. Come and buy now Cause I’m here today And tomorrow I’ll be gone.”
Gabe
How does Troy’s relationship with Gabe impact him?
Troy feels guilty for using Gabriel‘s disability money, but also loves him.
What advice does Bono give Troy about Rose?
Bono advises Troy to appreciate Rose and not to mess with a good thing. He warns that Troy could lose Rose.
Troy and Cory have a big fight about Cory‘s football scholarship. Troy refuses to let Cory play, leading to a fight, and Cory’s banishment from the house.
Act Two Scene Four
What does Rose do to support Cory’s dreams before Troy interferes?
Rose actively supports Cory’s dreams of playing football, encouraging him and attending his games until Troy forbids it
“Cory just growing up. He’s just busting at the seams trying to fill out your shoes.”
Lyons
How does Troy’s perception of the world differ from those around them?
He views the world as a constant battle due to his past hardships, making him more critical and less open to change than others. This contrasts with the more optimistic views of some of the other characters.
How does Bono’s perspective on marriage differ from Troy’s?
Bono views marriage as a commitment to be cherished and protected. However, Troy seems to view marriage more as a duty or obligation.
Troy and Bono are at Maxon's house drinking. Troy tells a story about wrestling with death.
Act One Scene One
How does Rose’s character contribute to the overall themes of the play, such as family, responsibility, and the American Dream?
Rose shows unwavering loyalty, responsibility by caring for others, and seeking a stable and loving home despite challenges
“When it comes to my money…I’m right as fireworks on the the Fourth of July.”
Bono
In what ways does Troy’s character challenge or reinforce traditional gender roles?
Tory is seen as the provider but also struggles with finances. He wants to control his family, especially Cory showing a conflict between traditional expectations and personal desires.
What does Bono mean when he says “Some people build fences to keep people out and other people build fences to keep people in?”
Bono means that fences could help protect themselves and keep others away, while also to protect and keep their loved ones close. Troy could be isolating him from his family rather than bringing them together.
Rose tries to get Troy to admit that he was too old to play for the major leagues and that times have changed since the year Troy was prohibited from the league.
Act One Scene Three