Tony Kushner's Angels in America: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes is a monumental work of American theatre, and a significant portion of its power stems from the character of Roy Cohn, a real-life lawyer infamous for his ruthlessness and his unwavering denial of his sexuality and impending death from AIDS. Cohn's chilling pronouncements, laced with arrogance and self-deception, are some of the play's most memorable and impactful moments. This exploration delves into the chilling quotes from Roy Cohn in Angels in America, analyzing their significance and showcasing their enduring relevance.
Why Roy Cohn's Denial is So Compelling
Roy Cohn, a historical figure known for his involvement in McCarthyism and his aggressive legal tactics, serves as a powerful antagonist in Kushner's play. His denial isn't simply a refusal to acknowledge his homosexuality; it's a broader rejection of mortality, vulnerability, and accountability. This deeply ingrained denial shapes his interactions with others and ultimately contributes to his tragic downfall. The quotes selected below illustrate this complex denial and its devastating consequences.
"I'm not sick." Is this truly a denial of illness?
This seemingly simple statement, repeated throughout the play, transcends a mere denial of AIDS. It's a profound rejection of vulnerability, a refusal to admit weakness in the face of a disease that was heavily stigmatized at the time. For Cohn, admitting illness would equate to admitting defeat, a concession he's incapable of making. His denial extends beyond the physical; it's a denial of his own mortality and the limits of his power. He attempts to control even death itself. This underscores the powerful psychological hold this denial had over him.
"I have always been a fighter." Was it his strength or stubbornness?
This declaration, while seemingly a statement of strength, actually reveals a deep-seated fear of being defeated. Cohn's "fighting spirit" manifests as aggression, manipulation, and a complete disregard for the well-being of others. His constant battles—legal, political, and personal—are not fueled by righteousness but by a desperate need to maintain control in the face of impending doom. His "fighting" is ultimately a futile attempt to stave off the inevitable.
"This is how I conduct myself. This is who I am. Accept me." Was it pride or a mask to hide?
This statement encapsulates Cohn's unwavering belief in his own righteousness, even in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary. He demands acceptance not for who he is, but for the persona he has carefully cultivated. This persona is a shield against confronting the painful truth about himself and his actions. He refuses to acknowledge the harm he has inflicted on others, preferring instead to present himself as a victim of circumstance.
How does Roy Cohn's denial relate to his homosexuality?
Cohn's denial of his illness is inextricably linked to his deep-seated homophobia and his refusal to acknowledge his own homosexuality. In the context of the 1980s, a time when AIDS disproportionately affected the gay community, acknowledging his illness would have meant confronting not only his mortality but also his sexuality. This layered denial served as a powerful defense mechanism, allowing him to maintain a public persona that aligned with his carefully constructed self-image.
What are the consequences of Roy Cohn's denial?
The consequences of Roy Cohn's denial are far-reaching and devastating. His relentless self-deception fuels his cruelty and manipulation, causing immense suffering to those around him. Ultimately, his denial prevents him from finding solace or acceptance before his death. This lack of self-awareness and remorse contributes to his tragic and ultimately lonely demise. The play masterfully highlights the destructive nature of self-deception and the importance of confronting one's vulnerabilities.
The Enduring Relevance of Roy Cohn's Denial
Cohn's denial, while specific to his time and circumstance, holds a broader resonance. It speaks to the human tendency to avoid confronting uncomfortable truths, particularly those concerning mortality and identity. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of self-deception and the importance of accepting one's vulnerabilities. The chilling quotes from Roy Cohn in Angels in America are not mere lines of dialogue; they are potent symbols of self-destruction and the human cost of denial. They continue to haunt us, forcing us to confront uncomfortable realities about ourselves and the world around us.
