Reading and respond
After reading Fences, Act I, begin a discussion, by replying to this post’s “Discussion Questions for Act I.” (Do not create/add a new thread).The first person to read my post should reply to it; then the next student who logs into the board to participate will also read my prompt, the first student’s, etc. Ideally, you should read a bit of the discussion thread, then go back and reply to my post. Please integrate textual support (i.e. “direct quotes” or paraphrases), as needed, to help illustrate your points. When quoting from the play, use quotation marks. Then, interject a second reply to a peer anywhere in the thread. Remember to follow online etiquette as outlined in our syllabus, do not use informal language, slang, or “texting” language—i.e. typing “i” for I or “u” for you. Proofread your responses carefully.
Discussion Questions for Act I:
Act I, Scene 1 and 2
1. Wilson is known for giving in-depth, vivid exposition and “playwright’s notes” before the action/dialogue of the play even begins. After reading Wilson’s notes on “setting,” “The play” and the italicized notes that occur after the heading Scene 1,create a response where you discuss the importance of this info for readers. In other words, what does Wilson want us to be aware of? What do we learn by reading his notes before theplay’s dialogue begins?
2. Wilson’s first scene of the play is one of his longest–most likely because he wants his readers/audience to get fully set up for the course of the play, he establishes initial characterizations (that we’ll see will change over the course of the play), and he introduces the beginning of several conflicts. What conflicts are presented through the dialogue of the characters in this scene? You should discuss at least two conflicts.
3. Give a brief character sketch of Troy Maxson–describing his personality presented so far (and, perhaps how he interacts with others)
in Act I, Scenes 1-2. Do you find him to be a likable character, despite any flaws? In other words, although he may be a flawed character, are his intentions good?
Act I, Scene 3 and 4:
1. In Scene III, Wilson presents an extended scene where Troy and Cory banter back and forth about baseball as well as their differing views on money and what Cory’s future goals should be. Discuss how you feel Cory challenges his father on these issues.
2. Troy is exasperated when Cory asks him, “How come you ain’t never liked me?” What is Troy’s response and what does this say about his concept of fatherhood?
3. In Scene IV, Troy and Bono engage in detailed reveries from their pasts. Wilson also employs the use of the monologue as a dialogue technique for Troy. What does Lyons learn by listening to these recounted experiences? Also, briefly give some thoughts on the character of Gabriel, which Wilson has said was inspired by the archangel Gabriel.