Résumé : We are interested in the structure of the set of homomorphisms from a fixed (but arbitrary) finitely generated group G to the groups in some fixed family (such as the family of 3-manifold groups). I will explain what one might hope to say in different situations, and explain some applications to relatively hyperbolic groups and acylindrically hyperbolic groups, and some hoped-for applications to 3-manifold groups.
This is joint work with Michael Hull and joint work in preparation with Michael Hull and Hao Liang.