The protagonist of August Wilson's compelling play Fences is Troy Maxson.
Troy Maxson is the central figure around whom the entire narrative of Fences revolves. His experiences, decisions, and conflicts drive the play's plot and thematic exploration, solidifying his role as the main character.
Understanding Troy Maxson's Character
Troy Maxson is a complex and formidable character, deeply shaped by his past and the racial challenges he faced in mid-20th century America. His identity and worldview are significantly influenced by his unfulfilled dreams and the realities of his life.
Here are key aspects of Troy Maxson, as detailed in the play:
- Age: Troy is fifty-three years old, an age where he reflects on his life's trajectory and past grievances.
- Occupation: He works for the sanitation department, a physically demanding job that involves lifting garbage into trucks. This labor reflects the systemic limitations placed upon Black men during that era, despite their capabilities.
- Athletic Past: Troy was a formidable baseball star in the Negro Leagues. This history is crucial to understanding his character, as his athletic prime occurred before the Major Leagues began accepting Black players. This missed opportunity for fame and fortune fuels much of his bitterness and resentment, impacting his relationships and outlook on life.
- Impact of Missed Opportunities: The inability to transition from the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseball profoundly affects Troy. He perceives it as a denial of his rightful place and success, a sentiment that manifests in his interactions with his family, particularly his son Cory, who also harbors athletic aspirations.
Why Troy Maxson is the Protagonist
As the protagonist, Troy Maxson embodies the struggles and triumphs, dreams and disappointments that are central to Fences. The play examines his relationships with his wife Rose, his sons Lyons and Cory, and his brother Gabriel, all viewed through the lens of Troy's experiences and perspectives. His deeply rooted beliefs about responsibility, freedom, and racial injustice drive the drama and force the audience to confront profound questions about ambition, legacy, and the American Dream for Black individuals.
His internal and external conflicts, particularly his inability to reconcile his past athletic prowess with his present circumstances, make him a compelling and memorable character who anchors the entire narrative.
