The Suppression of the Working Class: A Comparative Analysis of "Fences" and "Parasite"

Title: The Suppression of the Working Class: A Comparative Analysis of "Fences" and "Parasite" Introduction: The theme of the suppression of the working class is a recurring motif in various forms of literature and film. This paper aims to analyze two texts, August Wilson's play "Fences" and Bong Joon-ho's Academy Award-winning film "Parasite," in relation to this concept. By exploring the narratives, character dynamics, and social contexts depicted in these works, we can uncover deeper meanings and shed light on the struggles faced by the working class. Body: 1. "Fences": In August Wilson's play "Fences," the story revolves around Troy Maxson, an African American sanitation worker in the 1950s. Set against the backdrop of racial segregation and limited opportunities for African Americans, the play portrays the suppression of the working class. Troy's dreams of becoming a professional baseball player were crushed due to racial discrimination, leading to a life of manual labor. The play highlights the challenges faced by Troy and his fellow workers, depicting their struggles to make ends meet, provide for their families, and achieve upward mobility. The fences mentioned in the title symbolize the barriers that prevent the working class from achieving their full potential, limiting their opportunities for social and economic advancement. 2. "Parasite": Bong Joon-ho's film "Parasite" explores the suppression of the working class through a stark portrayal of class division. The story revolves around the Kim family, who infiltrates the affluent Park family's household by securing employment as domestic workers. The film exposes the stark disparities between the privileged upper class and the struggling lower class. "Parasite" offers a scathing critique of societal structures that perpetuate inequality and exploitation. The Kim family's desperate attempts to improve their socioeconomic status highlight the systemic barriers faced by the working class. The film questions the ethical implications of this suppression, ultimately suggesting that it breeds resentment and creates a vicious cycle of inequality. Possible Meanings: The representation of the suppression of the working class in "Fences" and "Parasite" conveys broader meanings related to social injustice, power dynamics, and the dehumanization of labor. Both texts emphasize the structural obstacles faced by the working class, such as racial discrimination and economic inequality. They shed light on how these systems limit opportunities for social mobility and perpetuate cycles of poverty. Furthermore, these works explore the emotional toll of this suppression on individuals and families. The characters in both texts experience frustration, resentment, and a sense of entrapment due to their limited agency in challenging social hierarchies. These narratives also serve as social commentaries, urging audiences to question prevailing power structures and advocate for more equitable societies. By exposing the injustices faced by the working class, both texts challenge the notion that success is solely determined by individual merit and highlight the systemic factors that contribute to socioeconomic disparities. Conclusion: The texts "Fences" and "Parasite" offer poignant explorations of the suppression of the working class. Through their narratives, character dynamics, and social contexts, these works shed light on the struggles faced by marginalized communities and expose the systemic barriers that limit opportunities for social mobility. By analyzing these texts, we gain insights into broader issues related to social injustice, power dynamics, and the devaluation of labor. Ultimately, these works prompt us to critically examine prevailing societal structures and advocate for more equitable systems that uplift all members of society.

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