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Writing Photography Past Projects Interact Artists |
Building Fences In Fences, August Wilson used the act of fence-building both as a plot device and a thematic one. All of the action takes place in the yard in front of Troy Maxson’s home. As the play progresses, a fence is erected in front of the house. The fence serves as a point of conflict in the story. Troy’s wife has made up her mind that he will build a fence around the house, and throughout the play, various people help him to do so. However, Troy’s son Cory, who is meant to help his father often with the fence, is often scolded for not doing his chores. This is used as a device to show that the conflict between father and son extends beyond the subject of college, work, and sports. It is part of every aspect of their relationship. The fence also serves as part of a bet Troy makes with his friend Bono. Though it is originally Rose who wants the fence to be built, it is Troy who must build it and who eventually develops the resolve that results in its completion. The fence is originally intended to keep Troy and Cory in. This is an excellent foreshadowing device, as Rose soon learns of her husband’s affair. Later, Cory leaves as well, and appears to have been out of contact with his family for years, when he returns for Troy’s funeral. Troy finishes building the fence to keep out Mr. Death. However, Troy is busy building other fences. He alienates his sons, his wife, and his best friend and sends his brother to be locked away in the hospital. He asks Lyons to not visit when he comes to borrow money. He refuses to allow Cory to accept a sports scholarship. He asks Rose to take care of his mistress’ child. Troy is also building a fence to keep out change. He refuses to accept that major league sports are becoming integrated, that a new chain store could be better than his local grocer, or that his best friend could find better ways to spend time than with Troy. He also cannot accept the change in his household position when he asks Rose to take care of Raynell. Fences surround Troy Maxson. He thinks he can keep building them to keep out trouble, but he only binds it closer. top – discuss – essays
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All original material © 2003 Erika Salomon.
