Fences essay

Fences is a play by August Wilson, set in 1950s Pittsburgh, that explores the lives of the Maxson family. The main character, Troy, is a former Negro League baseball player who is struggling to make a living for his family and to reconcile his past dreams with his current circumstances. In this essay, I will discuss how the characters in Fences connect to themes of racial identity, family dynamics, and the power of hope.

Racial identity is a major theme in Fences. Troy is the only African American in his family, and he is constantly struggling to find his place in a white-dominated society. He is caught between the world of the old countrywhere African Americans were oppressed and kept separateand the modern world where he is expected to conform to white standards. This struggle affects not only Troys relationship with his wife and children, but also his relationship with himself. Similarly, Troys son Cory struggles with his identity as an African American in a white world. He is constantly being pulled between his fathers expectations and his own dreams of becoming a professional athlete.

Family dynamics are also important in Fences. Troys wife Rose attempts to navigate her relationships with both her husband and her son. She loves Troy deeply, but she also wants Cory to be able to pursue his dreams. This struggle between love and responsibility is at the heart of Fences. Troys brother Gabriel also plays an important role in the story; he is struggling to live with the aftermath of a brain injury suffered during World War II, and his relationship with Troy is complex and strained by his disability.

Finally, Fences explores the power of hope. Despite all of his struggles, Troy still manages to find joy in life and hope for a better future for himself and his family. He has faith that one day things will get better, and he encourages Cory to follow his dreams despite the odds. This sentiment is echoed by Rose, who believes that eventually things will turn out all right in the end. Through these characters optimism, Fences shows us that even in troubling times there is always hope.

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