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What ailment put Troy in the hospital the time he met death?

Published in Literary Analysis 2 mins read

When Troy Maxson was hospitalized and recounted his legendary encounter with Death, the ailment that put him there was pneumonia. This significant event, as depicted in August Wilson's acclaimed play Fences, occurred during his stay at Mercy Hospital.

Troy Maxson's Symbolic Battle with Death

Troy's powerful story of meeting Death is a central part of his characterization in Fences. He transforms a very real and life-threatening illness, pneumonia, into a vivid, imaginative narrative of a wrestling match with Death himself. This fantastical retelling highlights Troy's resilience, his tendency towards exaggeration, and his ongoing struggle with mortality and the perceived injustices of life. His encounter, while based on a severe medical condition, becomes a powerful metaphor for his lifelong battle against adversity.

The Severity of Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus. For Troy, contracting pneumonia was a serious health crisis that brought him to the brink of death, making his subsequent recovery and fanciful retelling all the more impactful.

Common symptoms of pneumonia can include:

  • Cough, which may produce phlegm
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain when breathing or coughing

For more information on this respiratory condition, you can visit reputable health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Context of Troy's Hospitalization

Troy's time in Mercy Hospital, recovering from pneumonia, became the crucible for this defining story. This narrative is not merely a tale; it's a testament to Troy's perception of life's struggles and his refusal to be defeated, even by death itself. It encapsulates his worldview and his unique way of processing profound experiences.

To summarize the event:

Character Ailment Hospital Name Thematic Event
Troy Maxson Pneumonia Mercy Hospital A severe illness transformed into a symbolic, fantastical battle with Death, reflecting his character.