Major themes 'Fences' include duty and responsibility, fences, limitations, race, and death. In other words, 'death' is also a character in the play. Wilson's play is primarily about Troy's struggle to provide for his family and simultaneously cheat death. Troy eventually kicks him out, which subsequently causes even more friction between Cory and the family. In addition, Troy's son (with Rose), Cory, plays football one time he decides to leave during the middle of a season, which causes friction between him and Troy.

His 'influence' upon Alberta causes her to both give birth and die in childbirth. For example, the problem of adultery starts with Troy he desires Alberta to get away from the responsibility of marriage. Considering that Troy is the main character in the story, much of the problems with relationships in the play involve Troy. We find throughout the play that Troy cheated on Rose and impregnated another character in the play, Alberta both Troy and Alberta are the biological parents of Raynell.

Troy is married to Rose together they have three children: Lyons, Cory, and Raynell. Wilson centers the themes of the play on eight characters, one of which is the main character of the play, Troy Maxson. On the verge of an almost-guaranteed win as a mayoral candidate, Wilks finds his identity shaken when his morals and ideals are questioned by those around him. August Wilson's 'Fences' is a 1983 play that represents an exploration of the African-American experience, examining and evaluating race relations and various related themes.

Fences by august wilson sparknotes