Fences: Discussion questions
1. Fences is both unique to the plight of African Americans and universal in its depiction of
the human condition. What universal human condition(s) does Wilson’s play exhibit?
2. Note the realistic and metaphorical use of the fence in the play. Troy and Cory are
building a realistic fence around the house. What is the metaphorical fence being built?
3. The father and son relationship between Troy and Cory is explored as a central part of the
drama. Their relationship becomes complicated by strong feelings of pride and
independence on both sides. What are some of the primary conflicts between Troy and
his sons?
4. Troy is not a flawless protagonist, what are Troy’s most obvious flaws?
5. What admirable characteristics does Troy possess?
6. How is Troy’s behavior an instrument for others suffering?
7. By the end of Fences, every character except Raynell is institutionalized--Rose in the
church, Lyons in the penitentiary, Gabriel in the mental hospital, and Cory in the U.S.
Marines. The only free person is Raynell, Troy’s daughter. What might the
institutionalization of his family members represent? What might be represented by the
fact that Raynell is the sole remaining Maxson to exist outside of an institution?
8. Explore some of the generational differences that exist between Troy and his two sons,
Lyons and Cory. What are they and why is it generational?
9. Describe the relationship between Troy and his job/money?
10. Discuss how the diction of the Wilson’s play adds or detracts from the play as a whole?
11. Why might Troy have wanted to refuse to accept Lyon’s repayment of the ten dollars he
borrowed? What does this demonstrate about Troy as an individual? What does he need?
12. Examine the relationship between Troy and his own father. What did Troy admire about
his father? What did he despise? How has Troy’s experience as a child affected his
relationship with Cory?
13. Describe how Philip Larkin’s poem “This Be the Verse” is thematically appropriate to
August Wilson’s play, Fences?
14. Is Troy Maxon a tragic hero? Explain.
15. How is Troy a morally ambiguous character?