Non-African Drama: Fences by August Wilson - SS2 Literature Past Questions and Answers - page 1

Troy Maxson is a complex character in "Fences." His past experiences as a talented baseball player in the Negro Leagues and the racial discrimination he faced have left him bitter and disillusioned. This bitterness impacts his relationships with his family, particularly his strained relationship with his son, Cory. His actions, such as his affair with Alberta and his decision to not allow Cory to pursue college football, drive much of the plot's conflict. Troy's character serves as the central figure through which many of the play's themes are explored, including race, family, and the American Dream.

Racial discrimination is a prominent theme in "Fences." The characters, especially Troy, have faced racial discrimination in various aspects of their lives. For example, Troy's bitterness and sense of missed opportunities as a baseball player stem from racial barriers in the sport during his time. Additionally, Gabriel's mental impairment is a result of an injury he suffered during World War II, highlighting the impact of discrimination on African American veterans. The theme of racial discrimination serves to shed light on the challenges faced by African Americans in the 1950s and how it shapes their experiences and relationships.