Introduction
Welcome to the vibrant world of Fences! 🌟 This compelling masterpiece, penned by the illustrious August Wilson, is a deep dive into the African American experience through the lens of the Maxson family in the 1950s. August Wilson, an icon in American theatre, has etched his name in history with his profound explorations of the African American narrative, making Fences a shining jewel in his ten-part “Pittsburgh Cycle”. Each play in the cycle captures the essence of African American life in each decade of the 20th century, with Fences spotlighting the 1950s.
Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America, Fences navigates themes of racial discrimination, family dynamics, dreams deferred, and the quest for personal dignity. Its genre—drama—perfectly encapsulates the tension, humor, tragedy, and humanity of the characters’ lives. 📚✨
August Wilson’s masterpiece not only won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama but also continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, thanks to its timeless themes and complex characters. So, buckle up as we delve into the world of Troy Maxson, where fences represent both literal and metaphorical barriers. 🏘️💔
Plot Summary
Fences by August Wilson is a powerful narrative that encapsulates the struggles and dreams of an African American family in the 1950s. Let’s break down the main events of the play:
Exposition — The play opens in Pittsburgh, introducing Troy Maxson, a 53-year-old garbage collector, his wife Rose, his son Cory, and his brother Gabriel. Troy’s past as a star in the Negro Leagues, his time in prison, and his struggles with racial discrimination set the stage for the conflicts that unfold.
Rising Action — Tensions escalate as Troy’s fears and experiences with racial discrimination lead him to deny his son Cory the opportunity to accept a college football scholarship. Troy believes that despite the racial progress of the 1950s, Cory will still face insurmountable barriers.
Climax — The climax occurs when Troy’s affair with Alberta is revealed, and she becomes pregnant. This revelation shatters the trust and unity within the Maxson family, especially impacting Troy’s relationship with Rose.
Falling Action — In the aftermath of the affair’s revelation, Troy’s life begins to unravel. Alberta dies giving birth to their daughter, Raynell. Rose agrees to raise Raynell but declares that her relationship with Troy is fundamentally changed. Troy’s relationship with Cory also reaches a breaking point, leading to Cory leaving home.
Resolution — The play concludes with Troy’s death and the family coming together for his funeral. Cory, initially reluctant to attend, reconciles with his family and heritage. The play ends with a moment of supernatural acknowledgment as Gabriel, who believes he is the archangel Gabriel, attempts to open the gates of heaven for Troy, signifying a form of release and redemption for the characters.
Through Fences, August Wilson masterfully weaves a narrative that explores the complexity of family dynamics, the impact of societal constraints, and the personal battles faced by African Americans during the 1950s. Each event in the play—marked by struggle, conflict, and moments of tenderness—paints a vivid picture of life within the fences Troy has built, both literally and metaphorically.
Character Analysis
Fences by August Wilson presents a cast of complex characters, each with their own motivations, personalities, and development throughout the play. Let’s dive into the main characters:
Troy Maxson — A former Negro League baseball star, Troy is a proud, complex character burdened by the racial injustices of his past. He works as a garbage collector and struggles with his role as a father and husband. Troy’s experiences lead him to act out of fear and pride, often clashing with his family.
Rose Maxson — Rose is Troy’s devoted wife, representing warmth, patience, and dignity. She is the emotional backbone of the family, striving to keep peace and nurture despite Troy’s flaws and the challenges they face. Her strength is tested as she deals with Troy’s betrayal but emerges as a pillar of forgiveness and stability.
Cory Maxson — The son of Troy and Rose, Cory is ambitious and seeks to find his path through football. His aspirations clash with Troy’s cynical view of the world, leading to tension and a strained father-son relationship. Cory’s journey reflects a struggle for identity and independence.
Gabriel Maxson — Troy’s brother, Gabriel is a WWII veteran with a head injury that has left him mentally impaired. His presence adds a layer of supernatural belief and innocence. Gabriel’s character explores themes of sacrifice and the search for meaning beyond the physical world.
Lyons Maxson — Troy’s son from a previous relationship, Lyons is a musician living outside the Maxson household. His relationship with Troy is marked by financial dependency and differing views on work and success.
Jim Bono — Troy’s best friend and co-worker, Bono serves as a voice of reason and a mirror to Troy’s character. Their friendship offers insight into Troy’s personality and provides moments of levity in the play.
Alberta — Though never appearing on stage, Alberta’s affair with Troy and her subsequent pregnancy have significant repercussions for the Maxson family. She symbolizes Troy’s desire to escape his responsibilities and the consequences of his actions.
Raynell Maxson — The daughter of Troy and Alberta, raised by Rose. Raynell’s innocence and acceptance bring hope and a sense of renewal to the family, especially in the play’s resolution.
| Character | Personality | Motivations | Development |
|---|---|---|---|
| Troy Maxson | Proud, stubborn, flawed | To protect his family from racial injustices | Learns the hard consequences of his actions, remains unyielding |
| Rose Maxson | Nurturing, strong, forgiving | To keep her family together and supported | Grows in strength, becomes the family’s moral compass |
| Cory Maxson | Ambitious, searching for identity | To achieve his own dreams, independent of his father’s shadow | Moves from conflict to reconciliation, acknowledging his father’s impact |
| Gabriel Maxson | Innocent, mentally impaired | To live in his own reality, seeking peace | Represents sacrifice and the spiritual dimension of life |
| Lyons Maxson | Independent, aspiring musician | To follow his passion for music | Struggles with his relationship with Troy, seeks financial independence |
| Jim Bono | Loyal, humorous | To be a good friend and provide perspective | Acts as a moral sounding board for Troy, highlighting themes of loyalty and integrity |
| Alberta | Symbol of escape and consequence | Represents Troy’s desire for freedom and the consequences of his actions | Her impact brings to light issues of betrayal and responsibility |
| Raynell Maxson | Innocent, hopeful | To symbolize renewal and forgiveness | Brings the family together in the aftermath of Troy’s death, symbolizing hope |
Through these characters, Fences explores deeply the facets of human nature, family dynamics, and the impacts of societal constraints. Each character’s journey adds a layer of complexity and richness to the narrative, making Fences a poignant and enduring piece of American theatre.
Themes and Symbols
Fences by August Wilson is rich with themes and symbols that delve into the African American experience, family dynamics, personal aspirations, and the impact of societal constraints. Let’s explore some of the major themes and symbols:
Themes
Race and Discrimination — The play examines the effects of racial segregation and discrimination on the lives of African Americans in the 1950s. Through Troy’s experiences and his outlook on life, Wilson explores the barriers (both physical and metaphorical) that African Americans face.
Dreams and Aspirations vs. Reality — Many characters in Fences harbor dreams and aspirations that clash with their realities. Troy’s failed baseball career due to racial discrimination and Cory’s thwarted football aspirations highlight the gap between dreams and the harshness of their societal context.
Family Dynamics and Relationships — The complexities of family relationships are at the heart of Fences. The play explores the roles of father, mother, and children, examining themes of duty, love, betrayal, and forgiveness within the Maxson family.
The Search for Identity — Characters in the play struggle with their sense of identity within the constraints of their roles and society. Cory’s journey to manhood and independence is particularly emblematic of this theme.
Symbols
Fences — The fence Troy builds around his yard is a central symbol. It represents both protection and separation, illustrating Troy’s desire to shield his family from harm while also highlighting the emotional barriers he erects between himself and his loved ones.
Baseball — Baseball is a recurring motif that symbolizes Troy’s past dreams and failures. His references to hitting and striking out metaphorically express his battles with life’s challenges and his approach to personal relationships.
Gabriel’s Trumpet — Gabriel’s fixation on his trumpet and his belief in opening the gates of heaven symbolize hope, redemption, and the spiritual aspirations that contrast with the play’s more grounded struggles.
The Tree in the Yard — The tree where Troy’s brother, Gabriel, hangs his symbolic decorations represents growth, family history, and the passage of time. It also serves as a silent witness to the family’s struggles and changes.
Through these themes and symbols, August Wilson crafts a narrative that not only reflects the specific experiences of African Americans in the 1950s but also touches on universal issues of identity, family, and the pursuit of a better life. The intricate weaving of these elements makes Fences a profound study of human resilience and the complexities of the human heart.
Writing Style and Tone
August Wilson’s Fences is a masterpiece that showcases his unique writing style and the tone he employs to delve into the complexities of African American life in the 1950s. Through his play, Wilson captures the essence of human experience, framed by the socio-economic and racial challenges of the era. Let’s explore the key elements of his writing style and tone:
- Dialogues and Monologues: Wilson’s use of dialogue and monologues is a hallmark of his writing style. The characters’ speech patterns are authentic and richly textured, reflecting their backgrounds, experiences, and the era they live in. Through these dialogues and monologues, Wilson provides deep insights into the characters’ thoughts, emotions, and motivations.
- Symbolism: Wilson skillfully uses symbols, such as the fence and baseball, to add depth and layers of meaning to the narrative. These symbols are woven throughout the dialogue and actions, enriching the themes of the play and highlighting the characters’ internal and external conflicts.
- Realism and Poeticism: The tone of Fences oscillates between stark realism and lyrical poeticism. Wilson captures the everyday realities of the characters’ lives with unflinching honesty while also employing poetic language to elevate their stories and infuse them with universal significance.
- Humor and Tragedy: Despite the serious themes of race, family, and dreams deferred, Wilson incorporates humor into the narrative. This not only provides moments of levity but also deepens the tragedy as the humor often underscores the characters’ resilience in the face of adversity.
- Historical Context: Wilson’s writing is deeply rooted in the historical context of the 1950s, providing a backdrop that influences the characters’ lives and decisions. He meticulously blends historical events and societal attitudes into the fabric of the story, enhancing its authenticity and relevance.
- Character-Driven Narrative: The writing style of Fences is profoundly character-driven. Wilson develops each character with intricate detail, allowing their personal journeys to shape the narrative. The tone varies as it adapts to the perspectives of different characters, offering a multifaceted view of the story’s themes.
Through these elements, August Wilson’s Fences not only tells the story of the Maxson family but also paints a broader picture of African American life in the mid-20th century. His writing style and tone invite the reader (or viewer) into a world where personal and collective histories intertwine, making Fences an enduring work of art that resonates with audiences across generations.
Literary Devices Used in Fences
August Wilson’s Fences is a rich tapestry woven with various literary devices that enhance its narrative depth and emotional impact. Here are the top 10 literary devices used in the play, each playing a crucial role in unfolding the story and its themes:
1. Metaphor —
Wilson uses metaphors extensively to convey complex themes and emotions. The fence itself is a powerful metaphor for the barriers the characters face, both internally and externally. It symbolizes protection and separation, love and resentment.
2. Symbolism —
Objects and actions in the play, such as Troy’s bat and Gabriel’s trumpet, carry symbolic weight. They represent larger concepts like dreams, freedom, and the struggle for identity.
3. Foreshadowing —
Wilson employs foreshadowing to hint at future events, such as Troy’s eventual confrontation with death. This device builds suspense and adds layers to the characters’ development.
4. Irony —
The play is rich in situational and dramatic irony, particularly in Troy’s actions and beliefs. For example, his efforts to protect his family ultimately lead to its fragmentation, an outcome he didn’t foresee.
5. Flashback —
Though not used in the traditional sense, characters often reminisce about the past, providing background that informs their present situations and decisions. These reflections act as flashbacks that deepen our understanding of the characters.
6. Dialogue —
Wilson’s use of dialogue captures the rhythms and patterns of African American vernacular of the 1950s. The dialogue not only develops characters but also serves as a vehicle for exploring larger societal issues.
7. Personification —
Elements of the play, such as death, are personified. Troy’s confrontation with death is depicted as a physical battle, making abstract concepts more tangible and relatable.
8. Hyperbole —
Characters, especially Troy, use hyperbole to express strong emotions or to emphasize their point. This exaggeration adds humor and depth to the characters’ expressions.
9. Allusion —
Wilson alludes to historical events, figures, and cultural elements to anchor the play in its specific time and to highlight the broader African American experience.
10. Pathetic Fallacy —
The weather and other elements of nature often reflect the emotional state or the dynamics within the Maxson family, linking their personal experiences to the larger forces of nature and fate.
These literary devices are integral to Fences, enriching its narrative and inviting readers to engage with the play on multiple levels. Through his masterful use of these techniques, August Wilson crafts a story that is both specific in its examination of one family’s life and universal in its exploration of human nature and societal structures.
Literary Devices Examples
To further illustrate the richness of August Wilson’s Fences, let’s explore examples and explanations for each of the top 10 literary devices used in the play. This detailed look will help us appreciate the depth and craftsmanship behind Wilson’s work.
Metaphor
Example 1:
The entire concept of “fences” serves as an extended metaphor. Troy’s physical and metaphorical building of fences around his home and life represents his desire to protect his family and himself from the hardships and disappointments of the outside world, while also symbolizing the barriers he creates between himself and those he loves.
Example 2:
Baseball metaphors are used throughout the play to symbolize Troy’s life and struggles. His reference to “striking out” in life mirrors his failures and missed opportunities, drawing a parallel between the game and his personal experiences.
Symbolism
Example 1:
Gabriel’s trumpet symbolizes hope and the possibility of salvation. Despite his mental condition, Gabriel believes he can open the gates of heaven, representing a belief in redemption and the transcendent.
Example 2:
The tree in the Maxson’s yard, where Troy hangs a baseball tied to a string, symbolizes Troy’s unfulfilled dreams and his connection to his past. It also becomes a gathering point for family discussions, symbolizing rootedness and continuity.
Foreshadowing
Example:
Troy’s frequent confrontations with Death and his claim of having wrestled with Death foreshadow his eventual demise. This ongoing dialogue with Death hints at Troy’s mortality and the inevitability of his end.
Irony
Example:
The greatest irony in Fences lies in Troy’s efforts to protect his family, particularly Cory, from the racial injustices he faced, only to become the source of pain and limitation himself. His actions to prevent Cory from pursuing football are meant to protect him but instead replicate the very barriers Troy aimed to shield him from.
Flashback
Example:
Troy’s recollections of his own father and his escape from home provide a flashback that offers insight into Troy’s complex feelings about fatherhood and his harsh parenting style. These memories reveal the roots of Troy’s behavior and fears.
Dialogue
Example:
The rich, authentic dialogue between characters, especially the banter between Troy and Bono, captures the cadences and vernacular of African American speech in the 1950s. This dialogue serves as a window into their world, revealing character, context, and culture.
Personification
Example:
Death is personified in Troy’s narratives, particularly in his recounting of a literal struggle with Death when he was sick. This personification dramatizes Troy’s fear and defiance, making his internal battle external.
Hyperbole
Example:
Troy’s claim of wrestling with Death and defeating it is an example of hyperbole, exaggerating his experiences to express his strength, stubbornness, and refusal to be dominated by fear.
Allusion
Example:
References to historical figures and events, such as Jackie Robinson and the Negro Leagues, place the characters’ experiences within a broader socio-historical context, alluding to the struggles and changes in African American history.
Pathetic Fallacy
Example:
The weather and seasons throughout the play often mirror the emotional climate of the Maxson household. Storms and changing seasons reflect turmoil, transitions, and the passage of time, aligning the natural world with the characters’ journeys.
These examples highlight how August Wilson skillfully employs literary devices in Fences to deepen the narrative, enrich character development, and underscore the themes of the play. Through these techniques, Wilson crafts a story that resonates on multiple levels, engaging readers and audiences with its complexity and beauty.
Fences – FAQs
What is the main theme of Fences by August Wilson? The main theme of Fences revolves around race, family dynamics, and the American Dream. It explores how the protagonist, Troy Maxson, navigates the challenges of being an African American in the 1950s, including racial discrimination and his complex relationships with his family. The play delves into themes of dreams deferred, the struggle for dignity, and the construction of both literal and metaphorical fences within personal and societal contexts.
Who are the main characters in Fences? The main characters include Troy Maxson, a former Negro League baseball player and the patriarch of the Maxson family; Rose Maxson, Troy’s loyal and nurturing wife; Cory Maxson, their son who aspires to play college football; Gabriel Maxson, Troy’s brother who was injured in World War II; Lyons Maxson, Troy’s son from a previous relationship; Jim Bono, Troy’s best friend and co-worker; and Raynell Maxson, the daughter of Troy and his mistress, Alberta.
What is the significance of the title Fences? The title Fences carries significant symbolism throughout the play. It represents the physical and emotional barriers that the characters build around themselves. For Troy, building a fence around his house is an attempt to protect his family and define his own space in a world that has consistently marginalized him. The fence also symbolizes the divisions and conflicts within the Maxson family and the broader societal barriers of racial segregation and discrimination.
How does August Wilson use historical context in Fences? August Wilson sets Fences in the 1950s, a pivotal decade for the civil rights movement in America. The historical context is crucial to understanding the characters’ motivations and the challenges they face. Wilson integrates references to the Negro Leagues, the Korean War, and the emerging civil rights movement to anchor the characters’ experiences in a specific time and place, shedding light on the broader African American struggle for equality and dignity.
What role does baseball play in Fences? Baseball is a recurring motif in Fences, serving as a metaphor for Troy’s life and dreams. His past as a Negro League baseball star represents the opportunities denied to him due to racial discrimination, and his failure to play Major League Baseball haunts him throughout the play. Baseball terminology is used to describe his life’s successes and failures, illustrating his view of life as a game with winners and losers, strikes, and home runs.
What is the climax of Fences? The climax of Fences occurs when Troy’s wife, Rose, learns of his affair and his mistress’s pregnancy. This revelation shatters the illusion of the stable family life Troy has tried to build and forces each character to confront the realities and consequences of Troy’s actions, leading to a reevaluation of their relationships and aspirations.
How does Fences address the theme of dreams and aspirations? Fences explores the theme of dreams and aspirations primarily through the character of Troy Maxson and his son Cory. Troy’s dream of becoming a professional baseball player was thwarted by racial barriers, leading him to a life of bitterness and unrealized potential. In turn, he becomes an obstacle to his son Cory’s dream of playing college football, reflecting a cycle of deferred dreams and the impact of systemic racism on individual aspirations.
Quiz
| Question | A | B | C | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| What year is Fences set in? | 1957 | 1965 | 1943 | 1987 |
| Who is Troy Maxson’s best friend? | Lyons | Bono | Gabriel | Raynell |
| What profession does Troy pursue? | Baseball player | Garbage collector | Musician | Teacher |
| Why does Troy not allow Cory to play football? | He believes Cory should focus on his studies | He is jealous of Cory’s potential | He fears Cory will face racial discrimination | Cory is not good enough at football |
| What does the fence in the play symbolize? | The divide between rich and poor | Protection and separation within the family | The boundary of the baseball field | A barrier against racial integration |
| Who is Raynell? | Troy’s sister | Troy’s daughter with his wife Rose | Troy’s daughter with his mistress Alberta | Bono’s wife |
| How does Troy’s brother Gabriel affect the story? | He offers comic relief | His injury from the war provides Troy with income | He predicts the future | He is an antagonist |
| What major conflict does Troy face? | Gambling debts | His struggle with racial discrimination and personal failures | Competition with his son Cory | A dispute with his neighbor |
| What literary device is frequently used to represent Troy’s life challenges? | Irony | Baseball metaphors | Flashbacks | Personification |
| What ultimately happens to Troy? | He becomes a professional baseball coach | He reconciles with his family | He dies | He moves away from Pittsburgh |
This quiz is designed to test comprehension and engage students with critical aspects of Fences by August Wilson, covering its plot, characters, themes, and literary devices.
Exercise
In this exercise, students are tasked with identifying the literary devices used in a given paragraph from Fences by August Wilson. Analyze the text, spot the literary devices, and then compare your findings with the answers provided below.
Paragraph for Analysis:
“Troy: Death ain’t nothing but a fastball on the outside corner. And you know what I did? I looked that pitcher in the eye, and I said, ‘Give me all you got.’ I wasn’t afraid. I was ready for death. Ready for him to throw that pitch. That’s how I see it. Life is just a game. You gotta take the good with the bad. When death comes, you gotta be ready to face it, just like you would any other pitcher.”
Answers:
- Metaphor: Comparing death to “a fastball on the outside corner” transforms the abstract concept of death into something tangible and comprehensible, emphasizing Troy’s confrontational attitude towards it.
- Personification: Death is given human-like qualities, depicted as a pitcher in a baseball game. This personification makes death appear as an opponent that can be faced and challenged.
- Simile (implicit): By likening life to a game, Troy’s perspective on life’s challenges and his approach to dealing with them is clarified. While not explicitly stated as a simile, the comparison suggests that life, like a game, involves strategies, challenges, and the unpredictable.
This exercise encourages students to delve deeper into August Wilson’s use of language in Fences, enhancing their understanding of the play’s themes and character dynamics through the lens of literary devices.