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Fences Act 1, Scene 3 and Scene 4 Summary

August Wilson’s Fences explores the complex dynamics of the Maxson family in 1950s Pittsburgh. In Act 1, Scenes 3 and 4, the tension between Troy and his son Cory reaches a breaking point, highlighting the clashing perspectives of two different generations.

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Scene 3: The Conflict of Duty vs. Love

In Scene 3, Cory returns home after football practice, which sparks a major confrontation with Troy. Cory wants Troy’s permission to play college football, but Troy adamantly refuses. This scene features the famous 'Why do you have to like me?' dialogue, where Troy explains that his role as a father is defined by responsibility and provision, not affection. Troy’s bitterness stems from his own experiences with racial discrimination in professional baseball, leading him to believe that Cory will only face disappointment in the sports world.

Scene 4: Financial Struggles and Legal Hurdles

Scene 4 shifts focus to the external pressures weighing on Troy. He discusses his brother Gabriel’s recent arrest with Rose and reveals he had to pay a fine to keep him out of the hospital. We also see Troy’s interactions with his friend Bono, who subtly hints at Troy’s potential infidelity. The atmosphere is thick with the weight of the past and the uncertainty of the future, as Troy continues to use the construction of a physical fence as a way to exert control over his environment.

Key Themes: Barriers and Legacies

The fence serves as a central metaphor in these scenes. For Rose, the fence represents a desire to keep her family safe and together. For Troy, it is a barrier against a world he feels has cheated him. The 'generational gap' is also at the forefront; Troy views Cory's opportunities through the lens of the pre-Civil Rights era, unable to see that the world is changing. This lack of vision creates a tragic barrier between father and son.

Study Guide: Essay and Discussion Prep

When writing an essay or preparing for a class quiz, focus on Troy’s monologue about duty. Compare his definition of a 'good father' with modern expectations. Additionally, analyze how Troy’s storytelling acts as a defense mechanism. If you are comparing this text to summaries found on sites like SparkNotes or LitCharts, look for specific instances where Troy’s internal fear of aging and irrelevance manifests as outward aggression toward Cory.

Why does Troy refuse to let Cory play football?

Troy believes that racial discrimination will prevent Cory from succeeding in sports, just as it hindered Troy’s baseball career. He wants Cory to learn a trade that provides financial security instead of chasing a dream Troy considers dangerous.

What is the significance of the 'duty' speech in Scene 3?

The speech establishes Troy's worldview: he believes a father's only obligation is to provide food and shelter. He rejects the idea that a father must 'like' his son, prioritizing survival over emotional connection.

How does Scene 4 develop the character of Gabriel?

Scene 4 highlights Gabriel’s vulnerability and the financial burden his condition places on Troy. It also introduces the moral complexity of Troy using Gabriel's disability money to pay for his own house.

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