Being a parent in a colored family in the late 1950’s to 1960’s came with a large expanse of challenges. Fences by August Wilson revolves around an African-American family going through the struggles of family life along with dealing with racism commonly found in the south at the time. The main character is a man named Troy Maxon the father of the family previously mentioned. I believe that Troy is both a good and bad parent, because he wants the best for his children and kept up with his parental responsibilities although, he tends to cross the line with his reactions. Throughout Fences Troy consistently shows that he wants the best for his children. During an argument with Cory about how he balances school, sports and work Troy explains that he wants Cory to “learn how to fix cars or build houses or something, get you a trade. That way you have something can’t nobody take away from you. You go on and learn how to put your hands to some good use. Besides hauling people’s garbage.” (Wilson 35) Troy’s want for his children to have everything good that he never had is evident. This scene, especially shows the passion he has to help his children succeed in the best way he thinks possible. Likewise, he keeps up with his responsibilities to them. …show more content…
Later in the argument mentioned earlier Troy says “It’s my job. It’s my responsibility! You understand that? A man got to take care of his family. You live in my house... sleep you behind on my bedclothes... fill you belly up with my food... cause you my son. You my flesh and blood. Not ‘cause I like you! Cause it’s my duty to take care of you. I owe a responsibility to you!” (Wilson 38) It becomes very clear in this moment that Troy loves Cory deeply and would do anything to make sure he got what he needed even though he may have a strange way of presenting it. Admittedly, his reactions can be extreme and poorly thought