Compose a full 6-8 pg research paper, Slavery has left a lasting impression on current society, particularly upon the African American experience. Discuss how the legacy of slavery permeates the play. In which characters, instances, relationships, and occurrences can the remnants of slavery be seen?
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Research Paper: The Legacy of Slavery in “Fences” by August Wilson
Abstract
The legacy of slavery continues to reverberate through contemporary society, particularly impacting the African American experience. In August Wilson’s play “Fences,” the echoes of slavery are palpable, influencing the characters, relationships, and occurrences depicted in the narrative. By examining the remnants of slavery in the play, this research paper aims to shed light on how the historical trauma of slavery continues to shape the lives and experiences of African Americans today.
Introduction
The institution of slavery has cast a long shadow over American history, leaving lasting scars on the collective consciousness of the nation. In “Fences,” August Wilson masterfully weaves together themes of family, race, and identity, exploring how the legacy of slavery permeates the lives of the characters in the play. Through an analysis of key characters, instances, relationships, and occurrences, this paper seeks to uncover the ways in which the remnants of slavery manifest in “Fences” and reflect broader societal implications.
Historical Context: Slavery in America
To understand the impact of slavery on the characters in “Fences,” it is essential to provide a brief overview of the historical context of slavery in America. From the transatlantic slave trade to the brutal exploitation of enslaved Africans on plantations, slavery was a pervasive and dehumanizing institution that shaped the economic, social, and cultural fabric of the United States. The enduring legacy of slavery can be traced through generations, influencing systems of oppression, racial inequalities, and intergenerational trauma.
Character Analysis: Troy Maxson
Troy Maxson, the protagonist of “Fences,” embodies the complexities of the African American experience in the aftermath of slavery. As a former Negro League baseball player denied the opportunity to play in Major League Baseball due to racial discrimination, Troy’s bitterness and disillusionment reflect the systemic barriers faced by Black individuals in a predominantly white society. His struggles with authority, identity, and fatherhood are rooted in a history of oppression and marginalization that continues to haunt him.
Relationship Dynamics: Troy and Cory
The fraught relationship between Troy and his son Cory underscores the intergenerational conflicts that stem from the legacy of slavery. Troy’s authoritarian parenting style and refusal to allow Cory to pursue a football career mirror the constraints placed on Black individuals striving for success and autonomy in a society built on racial hierarchies. The tension between father and son reflects broader themes of power dynamics, rebellion, and the quest for independence within a history of familial trauma.
Instances of Resilience: Rose Maxson
While the remnants of slavery cast a shadow over the characters in “Fences,” instances of resilience and resistance emerge through characters like Rose Maxson. As a Black woman navigating the complexities of motherhood, marriage, and community in 1950s Pittsburgh, Rose embodies strength, compassion, and endurance in the face of adversity. Her unwavering support for her family and commitment to love and forgiveness stand as a testament to the resilience of African American women who have persevered through centuries of systemic oppression.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the legacy of slavery permeates every aspect of “Fences,” shaping the characters, relationships, and occurrences depicted in August Wilson’s powerful play. By examining how the remnants of slavery manifest through characters like Troy, relationships like that between Troy and Cory, and instances of resilience embodied by characters like Rose, we gain a deeper understanding of how historical trauma continues to impact the African American experience today. Through its exploration of race, family, and identity, “Fences” serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of slavery and the ongoing struggle for liberation and equality in contemporary society.
