Fences: Cory Wilson Character Analysis

Fences: A Look into Cory Wilson's Character

August Wilson's play Fences centers on Troy Maxson, a former baseball player turned garbage collector in 1950s Pittsburgh. One of the central figures in Troy's life is his son, Cory Wilson. Cory is key to the story, representing the generational conflict, racial issues, and dream-chasing. Let's dive deep into Cory’s character, explore his relationships, goals, and what he means for the play’s big ideas.

Cory's Dreams and Determination

Cory Wilson is a young guy with big dreams—he wants to be a pro football player. He’s got this fire in him to break out of his dad's shadow and create his own path. Unlike his dad, Troy, who thinks that being black will always hold him back in sports. This creates tension between them as they see life differently.

A big part of Cory’s story is how he stands up to his dad. Troy tries to push his own lost dreams onto Cory and tells him not to go for football. This clash shows how parents and kids often struggle for control over their lives. Despite Troy saying no, Cory keeps chasing his dream, showing just how determined he is.

The Changing Times and Racial Tensions

Cory’s journey also mirrors the changes happening during the 1950s. The Civil Rights Movement was starting to shake things up, and young African Americans like Cory were challenging old norms. He wants to break free from what society and his dad expect of him, symbolizing the shifting mindset of his generation.

Parental Influence

Even though Troy doesn’t support him, Cory looks up to his dad and craves his approval. It drives him to give it his all on the football field. He wants to prove himself not just for personal reasons but because he hopes one day Troy will be proud of him. This struggle for parental acceptance is something many can relate to.

Dreams: The Big Picture

The play also touches on dreams and how they affect us. Troy had dreams of being a baseball star that didn’t work out due to racial barriers; now he's projecting those frustrations onto Cory by holding him back too. But Cory’s persistence in following his dreams despite this highlights our ability as humans to keep pushing forward against obstacles.

So yeah, when you think about it—Cory Wilson in Fences isn't just a rebellious teen but someone who represents hope and resilience amid tough times.

Cory goes against what everyone expects from him—his father included—and fights hard for what he believes in which leaves us inspired by such strength within people even when faced with adversity.

References

• Wilson, August. Fences. Plume, 1986.
• Bogumil, Mary L., Understanding August Wilson. University of South Carolina Press, 1999.
• Nadel, Alan, Theatre Journal Review: Fences by August Wilson, Vol 38 (1), 1986.
• Pereira, Kim. African-American Theater: Fences Study Guide, Greenwood Publishing Group Inc., 1995.
• Shannon, Sandra G., The Dramatic Vision of August Wilson, Howard University Press, 1995.