Examples Of Victimization In August Wilson's Fences

Victims and Victimization

Often in society, people face many decisions that can change the outcome of their lives. It’s argued how social constructs are the force behind these choices, and as a result any consequences brought upon people is society’s fault. An example of this occurrence is presented throughout August Wilsons 1986 play, Fences. Set in the 1950’s Fences reveals the thoughts and hidden motivations behind an African American community faced with difficult obstacles such as segregation, and poor economic status. Troy Maxson, the protagonist in the play is a struggling African American father who is trying to support his family. Troy is conveyed as a man who has seen a lot of disappointment in his life; therefore, he uses excessive

Troy is living in a darkness of what could’ve happened, and what should’ve happened. The play defines how Troy’s past and present actions, affect everyone around him. His crushed dreams alter the dreams of those important to him. In doing so, Troy becomes a victimizer instead of the victim. Troy views himself as a victim of prejudice, and as a result he is unable to see that the world is full of new opportunities for the younger generation. Troy’s17 year old son Corey is an ambitious young man who captures the eye of a college recruiter for football. Corey possesses a similar athletic ability as his father. However, when Corey wants to make his dream a reality, his father is the only thing that is standing in his way. When Troy finds out about Corey’s plan, he states, "He ought to go and get recruited in how to fix cars or something where he can make a living" (Wilson). This hypocrisy implies how Troy is a stubborn man, who refuses to give his son an opportunity he never had. He uses his power of a father to crush his son’s

Troy says to Cory, “You a man. Now let’s see you act like one. Turn your behind and walk out this yard. And when you get there in the alley…you can forget about this house.” (2.4.75, Wilson) Troy possesses a toxic masculinity which leads him to make unobtainable expectations for his family. When his family doesn’t live up to his high expectations, he becomes furious. Troy chooses to look past the fact that he too made mistakes as a teenager, resulting him to spend time in jail. Cory finally stands up to his father but ends up losing the fight and is left to fend for himself in the world. This is the same occurrence that happened to Troy. Even though Troy wanted to give his son a better life, he Troy stubbornly dedicates himself to a way of parenting he believes is right. As a result, Troy constantly misses the mark while raising his