Disgraced

How does the play comment on the relationship between truth and artistic representation? Use specific examples from the text.

At the end of the play, the future of the characters is ambiguous. What do you think each character does next? Why do you think your conclusions align with the text?

The play brings up the issue of cultural appropriation through Emily and Isaac, who are both White. What point do you think the play is making about appropriation? Where do you think the line falls between appropriation and appreciation?

Research the partitioning of India after World War II. How did the separation of the country define different identities? Given that Amir is the child of two people born around the time of the partitioning of India, how might the effects of the historical event trickle down to shape his identity as a US-born person of Pakistani descent?

Consider Emily’s portrait of Amir and research Velásquez’s original painting, Portrait of Don Pareja (1650). How might Emily be drawing a parallel between the original subject and her husband? What do you think the portrait represents to her? What do you think it represents to Amir? Isaac?

Amir asserts that the beliefs that are instilled in childhood are very difficult to combat and suppress as an adult. What are some of those beliefs that come out in the play? What are some beliefs from your childhood that have been deeply ingrained?

Evaluate the title of the play. What do you think it means to be “disgraced”? Who is “disgraced” in the play and why?

The play is written to be presented with no intermission. Given that it is about ninety minutes long, how do you think this affects the dramatic structure of the play and the way the audience experiences it? Do you agree with this choice? Why or why not?