Symbols
Mask (ebony and alabaster)
Masks are a cover and an expression at the same time. While a mask prevents people from seeing an authentic face, the choice to wear the particular gives people information on how the person wants to be perceived. Queen Victoria and the Duchess of Hapsburg wearing alabaster (white) and expressionless masks reflect Sarah's wish to seen as a white and moral-less.
Balding Crown of Head
Hair-loss most commonly occurs on the crown of the head. However, with the theme of "royalty" and "privilege" throughout the play, it is unlikely to be a coincidence that Kennedy uses the phrase "crown of head" so often. The bald head, therefore, may signify the lack or loss of power and glory.
Hair
During times of slavery in the United States, hair style was used to differentiate between status of enslaved African Americans. The Black Power movement in 60s and 70s had pushed for more black people to take pride in their African American identity through styles like afros and dreadlocks (straight hair beauty). However, the stereotypes with hair for the black community is still a problem today: locks or braids are often seen as unprofessional. (University of Michigan, Byrdie)
Photo by David Fenton/Getty Images
Dead Chicken (Hen)
A hen usually symbolizes motherhood and familial love. This may be because of the association of the hen sitting on its egg and tending to it until it is ready to hatch. Therefore, the act of Wally's mother (Sarah's grandmother) killing a hen for her son's breakfast symbolizes her willingness to sacrifice her life to support her family and put food on the table.
Lilac
The flower meaning of lilacs has changed many times over time. The following are some possible meanings.
White: Purity and innocence of childhood
Violet: Spirituality
Lilac: First love or the first time one feels love for someone (Flower Meaning)