Discussion Response to August Wilsons “Fences”
Wilson said of his own work “The plays ultimately are about love, honor, duty, betrayal — what I call the Big Themes.” For this week’s discussion, explore one aspect of these themes as portrays in Fences. You might consider the way Troy betrays Cory by refusing to allow him to pursue an incredible opportunity —- in what way was Troy’s decision motivated by love, by duty? In what way was it purely a betrayal? You might consider the way Troy betrays Rose—what were his reasons? How could he live with himself? What does he mean when he says he was not sorry at all because in his heart it “felt right” —is that ever a justification? Does Troy have honor still because he gives his money to Rose? How about Rose—-in what ways does she illustrate love, honor and duty, but also betrayal? Pick the situation or theme that is most interesting to you and discuss it here.
August Wilson’s “Fences”
