Describe symbolism in Millennium Approaches by Tony Kushner

In Act I, Louis's grandmother's funeral begins the play with a context of history. Although Louis is separated from his roots, he is also affected by his Jewish heritage. Louis carries with him guilt and a need to intellectually examine every question, often at the cost of his emotional life. The rabbi who delivers the funeral address doesn't know Sarah, Louis's grandmother, but Louis doesn't know her either. She has become not a person but a symbol of Jewish heritage.

In Act I, we also become aware of Roy Cohn's connections. The phone system on his desk serves as a symbol of power.