Table of Contents Quick Examples for the “Fences” Essay “Fences” Essay Example Works Cited Quick Examples for the “Fences” Essay Exploring Troy Maxon's Values : Discuss and analyze the core values ​​held by Troy Maxon in August Wilson's "Fences," considering how these values ​​shape his character and decisions throughout the play. Fatherhood and Responsibility: Examine Troy's sense of fatherhood and responsibility, and how his values ​​in this regard impact his relationships with his sons, Cory and Lyons, as well as his wife, Rose. Racial and Social Values: Analyze Troy's values ​​in the context of race and society, considering how his experiences as an African American in the 1950s influence his beliefs and actions. Conflicts and Values: Discuss the conflicts that arise in the play due to differences in values, such as those between Troy and Cory, and explore how these conflicts determine narrative and character development. Change and adaptation: Analyze how Troy's values ​​change or remain steadfast over the course of the play, and discuss the consequences of these changes or lack thereof. Sample Essay “Fences” In Fences by August Wilson, Troy Maxson is a man of many faults. He is human and, like any other human being, his experiences throughout his life have influenced his decisions and outlook on life. If we had no context about Troy's life, we would see him as a father who prevents his son from pursuing a sports career, a greedy brother who takes advantage of Gabriel's disability benefits, and a lying and unfaithful husband. Although Troy Maxson's actions have negatively impacted the lives of his family and those he cares about, he continues to shine as a tragic hero. When we think of a tragic hero, we're not comparing him to Superman, but rather describing him as a character who intends to do good deeds, but allows his flaws, conflicts, and inner struggles prevent him from achieving his goals. . This is not a justification, but a clarification that although Troy Maxson is not a perfect person, he seeks to improve himself for those close to him. As readers, we see Troy do his best to protect his family in the only way he knows how, but he ultimately gives in to his inner struggles and causes his own demise. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay A major conflict in Fences is how Troy shoots down Cory's potential career in sports. From what we see in the play, it is obvious that Troy stopped Cory from pursuing the opportunity to play football primarily to protect him from the racism and discrimination he believed was still prevalent. Other characters, like Bono and Rose, are quick to remind Troy that there are "a lot of colored boys playing ball now." Baseball and Football” (14) because they are convinced that Troy is bitter about losing his chance to play in the big leagues years ago. Even Cory convinces himself that Troy drove him away from the sport out of spite and jealousy. However, Troy says that there is something that is overlooked: "I had enough sense not to let my boy get hurt by not doing any sports" (41). Some might say Troy intercepted it out of envy, due to his absurd reluctance to acknowledge the sport's new diversity. However, it is important to know that Troy grew up with a father who was more of a selfish and reluctant provider than a loving guardian, leaving Troy to fend for himself and navigateblindly in the world while facing racism, poverty and crime. Troy does his best to protect his family in a way he knows how, that is, by keeping Cory grounded in reality with a steady job and careers, instead of allowing him to float in the clouds with uncertain and temporary dreams. Good parents are described as parents who help their child pursue their dream, no matter how ridiculous it may be, but fail to protect their child. A bigger priority? Troy may not express remorse for what he did during Cory's interview, but he was aware that his actions would benefit Cory's life in the long run. However, as a result of these actions, misunderstandings and tensions arise between Troy and Cory. Troy thinks Cory is too sensitive and lectures him about the importance of family and hard work over trivial luxuries, like a television to watch the game. This seems to lead to Cory developing a feeling of hatred towards his father, which leads to Cory losing his fear of Troy's authority, leading to a few physical altercations. There is evidence that Troy holds back from hurting Cory, even if the opportunity presents itself. In either case, Troy could have slapped Cory or physically disciplined Cory, but he is aware that he has enough control and respect not to do so. We see this when “Rose shoots Troy to restrain him. Troy stops” (72) and when “Cory and Troy fight for the bat. The fight is fierce and fully engaged. Troy is ultimately the stronger one and takes Cory's bat and stands over him, ready to swing. He stops” (88). It is said that the abused person will eventually become violent, but Troy knows how much he wants to end the powerful cycle of domestic violence he experienced with his father. It could be argued that just thinking about hurting your child is harmful enough, but stopping yourself from following that impulse is powerful. Unfortunately, what ruins his role as guardian is the temptation he pursues. However, although Troy cheated on Rose with Alberta, he was aware that it was wrong, he admitted it, and was willing to accept the consequences rather than running away from his mistakes or becoming a victim. Troy immediately admits this to Rose, saying, "It's not about no one being a better woman or anything." Rose, you're not the culprit. A man cannot ask any woman to be a better wife than you. I am responsible for it” (71). Admitting his faults and accepting the punishment meted out to him shows more character in Troy than if he were to instead reject Rose's generosity and compassion. Yes, Troy's act of cheating ultimately shattered his chances of redemption from his difficult past, but rather than running away from his mistakes or rejecting them altogether, he addresses them and does what he can to improve himself, which is what makes him a tragic hero. This doesn't justify infidelity, but Troy's admitting his tragic flaw and accepting his fate is what redeems him. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The main character of August Wilson is an imperfect man. He's not exactly a loving father, but his love shines through his actions and his decisions to commit those actions. Troy saw that Cory was afraid that people wouldn't like him and took it upon himself to help Cory face reality, away from sports and television, in order to help him survive in the harsh and prejudiced world in which they live as African Americans. Despite Cory's reluctance to obey his father, Troy refused to lay a violent hand on his son, or anyone for that matter, and did what he could to.