A stereotype that often presents itself in the African-American community is that the patriarchal figure of the household usually abandons his family and takes no responsibility for his actions. However, in August Wilson’s play Fences, the protagonist Troy Maxson decimates any preconceived notion of the African-American man. Although he had a tumultuous childhood which, to an extent, limits him to communicate with his wife and children, Troy manages to win small victories against a universe that doesn’t want to see him win. Troy’s life is set in the backdrop of a racist America in the 1960s, a microcosm of the unjust society which August Wilson attempts to explicate. The legacy of the protagonist, Troy Maxson, should be honored rather than discarded on account of his unwavering loyalty to his family and moral code. The seed that Troy plants in Cory in the form of harsh lessons ultimately flourishes after his death in the shape of Cory’s success. Following his own father’s example, Troy works hard to provide and care for his family, despite being better off abandoning them. This is because responsibility and obligation characterize his view of life. Examining the period in which the play takes place, Troy speaks out against the inequality in his workplace, a microcosm representing the overall black segregation in the U.S.
Rather than ingrain false notions into Cory about the world around him, Troy understands the jarring reality that is forthcoming for Cory and decides to