The Theme Of Betrayal In August Wilson's Fences

Betrayals are a natural part of life. In the play Fences, August Wilson creates a narrative about a man named Troy who struggles to connect with those close to him. Troy doesn't realize the damage he inflicts on others when his actions betray them. Wilson uses characterization to develop the theme of betrayal to show how a person’s self-centeredness can lead to deterioration in his relationships.

Troy’s characterization towards his son shows his protectiveness but also his lack of nurture. He doesn't want his son to follow the unsuccessful path he took when playing sports. However, Troy is unaware that his rejection of Cory will impact their relationship. Troy thinks he is right by rejecting the scholarship in order for Cory to not be like

In Act 2, Scene 4, Troy comes home confronted by Rose about the money from Gabriel’s hospital papers. Troy claims “[he] can’t read” (75) and refuses to admit he signed anything regarding Gabriel. Troy taking the money causes a problem because “[Miss Pearl is] mad [because] she [isn’t] getting Gabe’s rent money” (75) showing the damage he has inflicted on Gabriel. In order for Troy to keep his ego high, he blamed “Miss Pearl [on] telling a big fat lie [about Troy]” (75) taking the money. Wilson displays self-centeredness because Troy isn’t willing to take responsibility for his actions despite the evidence. Troy’s fear of being exposed causes him to act protectively with frustration. Troy is exploiting his brother’s mental health for himself and it proves what type of person Troy is. Prior to this incident, Troy took money from Gabriel to buy his house, it shows how Troy doesn't learn from his experience and continues to think he is allowed to do this. He believes he is superior to the people around him. Wilson uses indirect characterization when Troy “wouldn’t sign the paper for Cory . . . but (...) signed [it] for Gabe.” (75), revealing how he prioritizes his money over his family. Because of his personality, Troy is prone to stealing money and taking advantage of others not caring what others

Troy displays a lack of empathy when he finally opens up about his affair. He doesn't understand that others had to endure his problems as well as their own. Troy believes he is the only one struggling, completely ignorant of how others feel. In Act 2, Scene 1, Troy finally admits his ongoing affair to Bono and soon after his wife. Wilson characterizes Troy as disloyal since he cheated on his wife for his self-benefit. Troy knows he is “responsible for it” (69) because the affair felt necessary to him. Troy acts defensive when Rose claims “[Troy takes] and [doesn’t] know [who’s] giving” (71), so Troy uses his frustration towards Rose. Troy doesn’t want lies about him despite lying so many times. Troy and Rose have been married for 18 years, yet it didn’t second doubt Troy’s decision on cheating on her because it just felt right in Troy’s terms. Consequently, Rose declares Troy a “womanless man” (79) when Rose meets