Background of August Wilson and "Fences"
August Wilson (1945-2005) was an influential African American playwright whose work focused on the African American experience. He is best known for his Pittsburgh Cycle, a series of ten plays that depict the lives of African Americans in different decades of the 20th century. "Fences," the sixth play in this cycle, premiered in 1985 and received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1987.
The play is set in the 1950s, primarily within the confines of the Maxson family's backyard in Pittsburgh. It centers around Troy Maxson, a former baseball player who now works as a garbage collector. Through Troy's struggles and interactions with his family and friends, Wilson illustrates the complex dynamics of race relations in America during that era.
Plot Summary
"Fences" unfolds over the course of several years and revolves around the Maxson family. The primary characters include:
- Troy Maxson: The protagonist, a proud yet troubled man grappling with his past and present.
- Rose Maxson: Troy's devoted wife, who seeks stability and love within their marriage.
- Gabriel Maxson: Troy's brother, who suffered a head injury in World War II and has a mental disability.
- Lyons Maxson: Troy's son from a previous relationship, a musician who struggles to find his place in the world.
- Cory Maxson: Troy and Rose's teenage son, who has aspirations of playing football.
The play opens with Troy returning home from work and engaging in discussions about his life and dreams. As the story progresses, Troy's struggles with his past, racial discrimination, and his relationships with his family become increasingly apparent. His relationship with Cory, who is being recruited by a college football team, becomes a central conflict, as Troy's own experiences lead him to discourage his son from pursuing sports.
The narrative is enriched by flashbacks and dialogue that reveal the emotional depth of each character. As the play reaches its climax, Troy's decisions and the consequences of his actions lead to profound changes in the family's dynamics.
Themes in "Fences"
"Fences" is a rich tapestry of themes that resonate with audiences, including:
1. Race and Discrimination
The play explores the impact of systemic racism on the lives of African Americans. Troy's experiences as a talented baseball player denied opportunities due to his race serve as a poignant commentary on the barriers faced by black individuals in America.
2. Family and Responsibility
The dynamics within the Maxson family reveal the complexities of love, duty, and sacrifice. Troy's struggle to provide for his family is juxtaposed with his inability to emotionally connect with them, leading to tension and heartbreak.
3. Dreams and Aspirations
Each character grapples with their dreams and the obstacles that prevent them from achieving them. Troy's thwarted ambitions shape his worldview and influence his relationships with his family, especially Cory.
4. Masculinity and Identity
Troy embodies the struggles of masculinity in a racially biased society. His pride and stubbornness often conflict with his desire to protect and support his family, leading to significant character development throughout the play.
Importance of Accessing the "Fences" PDF
Accessing an August Wilson "Fences" PDF can be beneficial for various reasons:
1. Educational Resource
For students, having a PDF version of the play allows for easy access to the text for analysis, assignments, and discussions. It can be a valuable tool for understanding the nuances of the characters and themes.
2. In-Depth Study
Scholars and theater enthusiasts can use the PDF for in-depth studies of the play's structure, character development, and thematic elements. This can enhance appreciation for Wilson's craft and the historical context of the work.
3. Accessibility
Digital formats like PDFs make the play more accessible to a broader audience. Readers can easily navigate the text and annotate it for personal insights or academic purposes.
4. Environmental Considerations
Accessing a PDF version of "Fences" aligns with environmentally conscious practices, reducing the need for physical copies and contributing to sustainability efforts.
Where to Find the "Fences" PDF
While the play is widely available in bookstores and libraries, there are also online resources where you can find the "Fences" PDF:
- Official Publisher's Website: Check publishers like Penguin Random House or other authorized distributors for e-book versions.
- Educational Institutions: Many universities and colleges provide access to texts for their students, often including PDFs of important literary works.
- Online Literature Databases: Websites like Project Gutenberg or the Internet Archive may offer free access to various literary texts.
- Library Services: Use digital library services such as OverDrive or Libby to borrow e-books, including plays like "Fences."
Conclusion
"Fences" by August Wilson is a powerful exploration of race, family, and the pursuit of dreams in mid-20th century America. Understanding the play's themes and characters provides valuable insights into the African American experience and the societal challenges faced during that era. Accessing an August Wilson "Fences" PDF can greatly enhance your study of this significant work, allowing for deeper engagement with its profound messages. Whether you are a student, educator, or theater lover, the opportunity to explore this masterpiece in a digital format is a step toward appreciating the complexity and richness of Wilson's storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of August Wilson's 'Fences'?
The main theme of 'Fences' is the struggle for personal dignity and the effects of systemic racism on the African American experience, particularly within the context of family and community relationships.
Where can I find a PDF version of August Wilson's 'Fences'?
A PDF version of 'Fences' may be available through educational resources, library databases, or online bookstores. However, ensure that you access it legally to respect copyright laws.
Who are the central characters in 'Fences'?
The central characters in 'Fences' include Troy Maxson, a former baseball player; Rose Maxson, his supportive wife; and Cory Maxson, their son, who aspires to be a football player.
What role does the symbolism of the fence play in the play?
The fence in 'Fences' symbolizes both protection and separation. It represents Troy's desire to keep his family safe while also highlighting the emotional and relational barriers he erects.
How does August Wilson portray the father-son relationship in 'Fences'?
Wilson portrays the father-son relationship as complex and fraught with tension, particularly between Troy and Cory, highlighting issues of expectation, disappointment, and the struggle for understanding.
What historical context is important to understand 'Fences'?
'Fences' is set in the 1950s, a period marked by racial segregation and the Civil Rights Movement, which influences the characters' lives and the decisions they make throughout the play.
What literary techniques does August Wilson use in 'Fences'?
Wilson employs techniques like rich dialogue, symbolism, and character development to convey deep emotional truths and the realities of African American life in the 20th century.
Is 'Fences' part of a larger series of works by August Wilson?
Yes, 'Fences' is part of August Wilson's Pittsburgh Cycle, a series of ten plays that explore the African American experience in each decade of the 20th century.
What awards did 'Fences' receive?
'Fences' won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1987 and has received numerous accolades, including Tony Awards for its Broadway productions.
