Troy Maxon Essay

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Pages: 3
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August Wilson’s “Fences,” goes into a lot of depth about the lives of an African American family living in nineteen-fifties Pittsburgh. Wilson uses the character Troy Maxon to show the profound impacts of racism on individual lives and family dynamics. Troy, who used to be a baseball player in the Negro League who became a garbage collector, struggles with the limitations and injustices that were placed on him by a racially oppressive society. This essay will talk about the ways in which racism shapes Troy’s behavior and character. And the effects on the Maxon Family.

Troy Maxon is a very complex character who has had experiences with racism that have left a lasting mark on his psyche. When Troy was a young man, he was a very talented baseball player but was denied the opportunity to play in the major leagues because of the color of his skin. “Troy was a great hitter, fully deserving of the chance to become a major leaguer.” (Wolfe) This was a huge disappointment for Troy which left him with a deep rooted resentment towards the predominantly white power structures that denied him his dreams. …show more content…
Especially in the relationship with his son, Cory. Troy’s own experiences with racism have made him very skeptical of Cory’s goals in pursuing a career in football. Troy fears that Cory will face the same or similar discrimination and disappointment that he faced. “But that father’s legacy also includes the withholding of warmth and affection. Troy can’t be soft and gentle with his sons.” (Wolfe) Troy’s inability to support his son’s dreams does not come from a lack of love but from a deep distrust of the world outside because of his
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