What does it mean to be a descendant? The concept of ancestry is nebulous, abstract, and often taken for granted by folks who are lucky enough to be able to trace their genealogy. To be a lineal descendant is to be anchored in a longstanding history of real people who have existed before you — and have made your existence possible. Tracing your lineage can thus confer your existence with a sense of tangibility, for knowing your origins and the veritable line of ancestors preceding you can help you make better sense of who you are as you contribute to your family tapestry.
Margaret Brown’s “Descendant,” which premiered at this