Question

how does the diction and subtext of Parks’ Topdog/Underdog inform the dramatic tension?

Answer 1

The concept that both the brothers have to depend on each other and they are being pushed to the margin of the community or the society will be indicating the effects of racism. The subtext of the play is that each and every aspect of life is greatly affected by the racial inequalities for these brothers and thus the dramatic tension is increased due to racism. This is due to the fact that the society can be seen as the group of different forces which are being implemented against the brothers and nothing can be done by them to neutralize these forces.