Fences assignment

In my opinion, the main theme of Fences is restraint. Rose feels she needs the fence to protect her and her family. The fence in the play is the constant repeating symbol. Rose has constantly bowed down to Troy throughout the entire story but undergoes a dramatic change in Act 2. After Troy reveals that he has cheated on Rose and is a soon-to-be daddy, Rose tells him this: "...this child got a mother. But you a womanless man."(page 857) Rose is viewed as a very gracious and giving character. Troy cheats on her, and when the childs mother dies, Rose takes the child in as her own. The setting is important to Roses character because she is willing to accept it. Prejudice was very open at this time but she does not let that hold her back. This could be the reason for so many of her and Troys problems because instead of accepting this setting, he uses it as an excuse. Roses tone throughout the entire story is very gracious and benevolent. Her tone changes slightly toward Troy at the end when he reveals his affair from generous to hostile. Her character reveals this tone throughout by attending Troys funeral and showing her forgiveness towards him. I think the author added the cheating incident in the play to reveals how generous Rose is as a person. It reveals the opposition between her and Troy which could have lead to the affair. I think that Roses tone of generosity connects with the theme of restraint. She feels that she does everything she can for her family, but is it enough? She feels that the fence represents Jesus and will protect her family from making her regret that generosity.

For the essay I will be discussing Roses character and her view of the fence. I will also be discussing her impact on the other characters.