A Motherless Man In Fences, By August Wilson

440 Words1 Page

Sometimes the greatest obstacles we face in life are the ones we create ourselves. In August Wilson’s play Fences, Troy Maxson, the protagonist, is a strong example of man vs. himself. In Troy’s efforts to find happiness and comfort, he ends up destroying his life. When Troy seeks love from another woman, he kicks open the doors to disaster. In addition to his crumbling marriage, Troy’s close mindedness and quick decision to not be open to the idea that the times have changed since the war, also damaged his relationship with his son Cory. Troy Maxson is a prime example of man vs. himself. Moreover, Troy’s decision to engage in an affair costs him his marriage. In Wilson’s play, Rose states, “A motherless child has got a hard time. Right now this child has got a mother. …show more content…

Rose, a selfless woman, takes in Troy’s daughter, Raynell, to ensure she has a good life, but it was very clear that Troy was without a wife. Just because she is caring for her child, it is evident that she is not forgiving the fact that he cheated and had this child with another woman. Troy’s attempt to find another source of love, is a selfish decision that cost him his wife. In addition to the collapse of Troy and Rose’s marriage, his and Cory’s relationship is on the line. Troy tries to give Cory the most dependable and stable life, by all means necessary. Wilson explains how Troy took it upon himself to go to Cory’s school and tell Coach Zellman he is no longer allowed to play football, and they did not wish to speak to the recruiter (1.4.). All Troy cares about is getting things his way. Troy was not open to the fact that since the war, colored people have been given more opportunities, unlike the ones he grew up with. With Troy being close minded and crushing Cory’s dreams of playing football, he is crushing their relationship. Ultimately, Troy’s decisions are the ones ruining his life. He was the one to indulge in a mistress, later ending his

More about A Motherless Man In Fences, By August Wilson

Open Document