Symbolism In The Play Fences By August Wilson

Having knowledge of the historical context in which a play or story takes place is a significant factor when interpreting the story itself. Without having the knowledge of the historical context, the stories impact could be immensely misconstrued. Historical context refers to the beliefs, conditions, knowledge, attitudes and moods that existed in a certain period of time in history. In the play “Fences” by August Wilson, the setting and themes of the play are directly related to the civil rights movement that take place mainly throughout the 1950’s and 60’s; the civil rights movements were a worldwide series of political movements for equality. The setting, characters, and symbolisms used in the play “Fences” are directly related to the historical

A few symbolisms used in the play “Fences” have a significant role in the meaning of the story, the characters, and the setting. For instance, for nearly two decades, Troy worked from the back of the garbage truck as many African American’s did for this job. A friend of Troy’s, named Bono, also worked at the back of the garbage truck alongside him. Together, they hauled junk throughout the neighborhoods and alleyways of Pittsburg. Troy wanted and demanded more from his employers. He sought to question why there were so many white drivers and a majority of African Americans at the back of the truck lifting the garbage. Due to the racism of white employers, and union members, asking for a promotion was a tough thing to do. Although a daunting task at the time, Troy finally sought a promotion after growing tired of the unfairness of the job. He is awarded the promotion regardless of the time in history when racial discrimination was arguably at its highest. “However, this creates a solitary occupation, distancing himself from Bono and other friends (and perhaps symbolically separating himself from his African-American community)” (Bradford). The symbolism of Troy growing apart from the African American community is to show the growth of racial fairness in the workforce during this time in history. Also to show how Troy had become less of a hateful man because he attained a

Troy relates everything that happens or has happened in his life to baseball. At the beginning of the script, an important prop was shown to have significance later on in the play. This prop was a baseball bat that leans against a tree. During an argument later on in the play, Cory picks up the bat and swings at his father, Troy. When he Bullies his son Cory, he warns him: “Troy: You swung and you missed. That’s strike one. Don’t you strike out!” (Wilson). Interpreting this action as, if you swing, you better hit the ball and don’t look back or else you will lose the game. Possibly meaning if he swings the bat at him, Cory better not miss or else he will be punished severely. Baseball serves as Troy's main way of explaining his actions. When he talks about facing death, he uses baseball terminology, comparing a face-off with the grim reaper to a duel between a pitcher and a batter” (Bradford). Many of Troy’s analogies in life (in the play) derive from his knowledge and experiences in