Literary Analysis Practice 3

Fences
Act 1, Scene 3

Instructions: Please complete each of the following analysis questions in 1-2 sentences

1. Character Analysis

Describe the character’s defining What are the character's most

traits and personality deeply-held values and convictions?

wants to be sports player with tv, that the world is improving and he can
Cory
optimistic help make it better.

1. Symbolism Analysis: Fence and television

a. What deeper meaning might Troy’s fence hold for the audience thus far in the play?

None?

b. What does the televsion seem to represent to Cory and why do you believe Troy is so
resistant to the idea of owning one?
He really wants one but Troy doesn’t want to spend the money

2. Theme Analysis: Black manhood

c. What is Troy’s vision for the man he wants Cory to become? What is Cory’s vision for
himself?
Troy wants Cory to not be at all like him, but Cory wants to follow in his fathers footsteps and
pursue a career in athletics.
 d. What effect do you believe Troy’s definition of manhood has on Cory and his emotional
development?

It probably wasn’t very good and was generally negative.

3. Character Analysis: Troy Maxson

a. Do you believe Troy truly likes his son Cory? Why is Troy so confident in declaring that
liking Cory isn’t “part of the bargain?”

No. Because Troy doesn’t think that liking one’s son is necessary

b. What does Troy finally admit about why he doesn’t want Cory to play football or get
recruited by a college or university?
He doesn’t want Cory to be like him.