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Themes in August Wilson’s Fences: Navigating Dreams and Struggles

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Published: Jan 31, 2024

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Dreams and aspirations, struggles and obstacles, interplay between dreams and struggles.

• Wilson, A. (1985). Fences. Penguin.
• Sandberg, L. (2006). Troy Maxson and the African American Experience in August Wilson’s[Title of Play]. University of Agder Master’s Thesis.
• Barnett, (2017). August Wilson and the Long Civil Rights Movement. Journal of African American Studies, 21(2), 253-268.

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Bloom, H. (Ed.). (2009). August Wilson's Fences. Infobase Publishing.Elam, H. (1997). The past in August Wilson's Fences. Journal of American Studies, 31(3), 387-398.Gantt, K. E. (1999). Playing in the dark: August Wilson's [...]

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Essay Samples on Fences

A comparative analysis of "fences" and "death of a salesman".

August Wilson's "Fences" and Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" are two iconic plays that delve into the complexities of human relationships, aspirations, and the pursuit of the American Dream. This essay offers a comparative analysis of these two works, highlighting the similarities and differences...

• Comparative Analysis
• Death of a Salesman

Fences Directed by Denzel Washington

The movie fences is a movie that was produced and directed by Denzel Washington and carries many themes with it. “Fences” takes place in the 1950s in Pittsburgh. The movie portrays various themes such as family dynamics, personal truths, the power of forgiveness. Troy Maxson,...

• Movie Summary

Fences: Fight for the Rights of African Americans in Racist Society

Throughout many century racism is tremendously an issue to African American. African American have struggled a lot in America as they went from slavery to segregation and still till these days they do not look like others even after all people fighting for American American...

• African American

Troy Maxson Character Analysis in August Wilson's Novel Fences

In 1983, one of the most influential American Theater writers, August Wilson introduced his literature masterpiece Fences. Based in the nineteen fifties it brings the viewer through a realistic and depressing story of African Americans in that time period. The Troy Maxson character analysis essay...

• Character Analysis

The Use of Symbolism and Imagery for Characterisation in "Fences"

August Wilson chose to write a play known as “Fences” in 1985. “Fences” is a story about a former baseball player that got into some trouble as a teenager and was sent to jail for fifteen years and became a waste management professional (garbage man)....

• Imagery in Literature

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Fences by August Wilson: Insight into an Ordinary Man's Life

One of the hallmarks of good plays is their timelessness. Well-scripted plays tend to endure for very long periods and to remain relevant in their portrayal of the issues that affect people in their everyday lives, as well as to address themes that remain pertinent...

• Civil Rights Movement

Generational Struggles of African-Americans in Fences

Fences successfully depicts the strenuous life of one African-American family during the 1950s and 1960s. This moving play is impactful because the playwright August Wilson uses tragedy to facilitate his message and example of how one family, after generations of failure, achieve success despite racial...

Historical Background Behind August Willson's Fences

Life changing historical events like the Civil War, the Great Depression, both world wars, and the Civil Rights movement have helped to influence major literary movements. And these literary movements take a lot from then current world events that later influence and become major themes...

• Great Depression

Characteristics Of Troy In August Wilson's Play “Fences”

August Wilson’s play “Fences” is about how Troy Maxson plays the victim role. Troy shows and expresses how his life was growing up and express everything in baseball terms. Troy is in a world where he feels he does not belong; things do not always...

Best topics on Fences

1. A Comparative Analysis of “Fences” and “Death of a Salesman”

2. Fences Directed by Denzel Washington

3. Fences: Fight for the Rights of African Americans in Racist Society

4. Troy Maxson Character Analysis in August Wilson’s Novel Fences

5. The Use of Symbolism and Imagery for Characterisation in “Fences”

6. Fences by August Wilson: Insight into an Ordinary Man’s Life

7. Generational Struggles of African-Americans in Fences

8. Historical Background Behind August Willson’s Fences

9. Characteristics Of Troy In August Wilson’s Play “Fences”

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Blackness and Race Relations

Set in Pittsburgh in the 1950s, Fences explores the experience of one black family living in the era of segregation and a burgeoning black rights movement, exposing, at the heart of its characters’ psychology, a dynamic between the inner world of a black community and the expanse of white power around it.

The fence which Troy gradually builds in front of his house serves as a symbol of segregation, as well as the general psychological…

Practicality, Idealism, and Race

Fences explores the different views some of its characters have about what’s feasible, achievable, and practical or life-sustaining with regard to career ambitions and future goals. Troy disapproves of the livelihoods to which his sons aspire, considering them to be idealistic dreams compared to what he views as more practical trades. Troy’s disapproval, especially in Cory ’s case, is largely informed by his own experience growing up black. Cory’s youth—his experience growing up in a…

Manhood and Fathers

The play largely revolves around the turbulent relationship between Troy and his children—particularly his relationship with Cory . Cory’s desire to assert his own manhood and determine his own future clashes with the authority Troy feels as a father. Further, Cory’s ambitions go against everything Troy thinks will be good and healthy for his son’s prosperity.

Cory evolves in the play from cowering in fear of his father to ultimately severing his ties with him…

Family, Duty, and Betrayal

Fences is a portrayal of family life—of how its characters view their roles as individual family members, and how they each define their commitment or duty to the family; it also explores how betrayal can break the familial bond.

Troy refuses to tell Cory he loves him; rather, Troy tells Cory he only acts out of duty towards him as a son, and that there’s no reason that love necessarily must be involved. Duty, for…

The topic of death appears throughout the play in various forms, both in the physical death of two characters ( Troy and Alberta ), as well as in the stories told by Troy and through his brother Gabriel ’s obsession with the Christian afterlife.

Troy mentions the grim reaper (“ Mr. Death ”) several times throughout the play, telling a story about how they once wrestled. Troy seems to believe that, while death is an…

Understanding the Themes in August Wilson’s Fences: Navigating Dreams and Struggles

Introduction.

August Wilson’s drama “Fences” examines social expectations, goals, and relationships. Troy Maxson and his family are portrayed in a drama set in 1950s Pittsburgh as they battle with obligations to their family, prejudice, and the American Dream. Through rich characterization and impactful dialogue, Wilson paints a vivid picture of African Americans coping with societal change and inequity. This essay will critically evaluate a central idea or literary device from “Fences,” exploring its literary and historical context and applicability to current concerns. In order to understand why “Fences” has had such a profound effect on its audience and society, this study will look at the film’s many facets.

Thesis Statement:

The complexity of familial relationships and the continued effects of racism on the characters’ lives are eloquently captured by August Wilson in “Fences,” highlighting the obstacles that must be overcome to achieve their goals.

The Interplay of Family Dynamics

The effects of familial relationships are the main topic of “Fences.” His choices affect Troy Maxson’s family. Wilson expertly illustrates the impact Troy’s actions have on his wife Rose, his boys Cory and Lyons, and even his best friend Bono (Bigsby). Troy and his son Cory’s argument symbolizes their generational gap and opposing objectives. Even though Cory wants to pursue a scholarship to play college football, Troy wants to manage him. Wilson stresses the challenges of balancing family and personal ambitions in parent-child relationships.

Racism as an Impediment to Aspirations

Racism and its effects on the main characters are significant in “Fences.” The drama examines the limitations that systematic racism places on African Americans in an era of racial disparity. Troy, a promising young baseball player the Major League rejected, discusses dealing with discrimination. Troy remarks about the black man, Bias, as it is for the play’s key characters, prevented Troy from achieving his goals. Racism is depicted in the play in a way that highlights the continuous fight against racial injustice and brings to mind actual historical events. The portrayal of racism by Wilson and how it affected the lives of the characters, according to scholar Johnson, “resonates with the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice” (Bigsby). “Fences” promotes racial equality by emphasizing its flaws.

The Illusory Nature of the American Dream

The drama “Fences” questions the validity of the American Dream by examining the challenges of obtaining financial success in a prejudiced society. The fundamental reason Troy Maxson has lost faith in the American Dream is the structural obstacles in his reaching his full potential. Wilson deftly demonstrates how “Troy’s experiences reflect the unfulfilled promises of the American Dream for African Americans” (Bigsby). Troy has trouble succeeding because of racial prejudice and a lack of opportunities. The movie “Fences” explores social injustices and challenges the idea of the American Dream via Troy’s experiences.

The Complexity of Relationships Between Characters

Interpersonal interactions are complicated in “Fences.” August Wilson creates intricate interpersonal connections. Troy Maxson and Bono are close pals. Bono leads Troy throughout the play. According to Johnson’s team of researchers, “Bono’s loyalty and unwavering support for Troy illustrate the complexity and depth of their friendship” (Bigsby). Their conversations reveal their strong bond, mutual support, and shared history. The bond between Troy and Rose deepens. Troy’s adultery destroys their once-joyful marriage. With its sensitive discourse, “Fences” illustrates the highs and lows of relationships.

Death as Personification and its Symbolic Meaning

Death, as personified in “Fences,” represents death and human behavior. Troy’s brother Gabriel serves as an example of it. Gabriel has become a symbol of death due to the mental and physical injuries he received during combat. Thompson writes, paraphrasing, “Gabriel’s presence in the play symbolizes the looming specter of death and serves as a reminder of the consequences of one’s choices” (Wilson). In order to warn the characters of their imminent deaths and the effects of their deeds, Gabriel plays trumpet music throughout the play and makes brief appearances. The personification of death is a device “Fences” uses to examine themes of accountability and the effects of one’s choices.

Character Development of the Protagonist

The protagonist of “Fences,” Troy Maxson, experiences personal progress and stagnation. Troy is imperfect and multidimensional throughout the play. He shows vulnerability and empathy, yet his shortcomings and decisions hold him back. According to scholar Johnson, “Troy’s character arc showcases the struggle between personal aspirations and the weight of past mistakes” (Wilson). Despite his goals, Troy’s adultery and troubled relationships hinder his character improvement. As the play progresses, Troy’s internal struggles keep him from changing. “Fences” analyzes human nature via Troy’s character.

The Significance of the Title “Fences” and Its Relation to Characters and Themes

The struggle of people experiencing poverty is essential to the characters’ quest for safety, happiness, and the American Dream in “Fences,” as is the significance of wealth and money. The drama explores the characters’ hardships to survive and create a stable financial future. The strain of sustaining his family on the meager money he receives as a garbage collector presents particular difficulties for Troy. A scholar named Johnson claims that “the portrayal of the working poor in ‘Fences’ sheds light on the systemic economic disparities that hinder upward mobility and reinforce cycles of poverty” (Wilson). The play exposes the depressing situations of people confined to low-paying jobs and sheds light on the cultural barriers that prevent them from achieving financial stability. “Fences” offers a critical examination of economic disparities and inspires reflection on the challenges disadvantaged people encounter in their quest for economic stability by investigating poverty and the working class.

The Significance of Money, Wealth, and the Working Poor

For the characters in “Fences,” the pursuit of security, contentment, and the American Dream rides on the success or failure of the working class. The drama focuses on the protagonists’ monetary woes. With his salary as a garbage collector, Troy needs help providing for his family. To paraphrase Professor Johnson: “The portrayal of the working poor in ‘Fences’ sheds light on the systemic economic disparities that hinder upward mobility and reinforce cycles of poverty” (Wilson). The novel draws attention to the struggles of low-wage workers and the cultural barriers they face in achieving economic independence. “Fences” challenges economic injustice and invites reflection on the plight of the working class through its examination of poverty and the working class.

The Play’s Attitude toward Women

Exploring the roles and experiences of women in “Fences” reveals gender dynamics. The female characters of August Wilson reconcile their personal goals with society. Rose, Troy’s wife, demonstrates fortitude and tenacity. The author Thompson claims that “Rose’s character challenges traditional gender roles and portrays the strength and agency of women in a patriarchal society” (Wilson). The play depicts women’s boundaries and concessions, particularly in domestic and private settings. The strong female characters in “Fences” explore gender relations, power structures, and women’s tenacity in the face of social expectations.

The Characters’ Dreams, Hopes, and Aspirations

Wants and goals to drive “Fences” characters’ lives and relationships. August Wilson’s primary protagonists seek more from life and relentlessly pursue their visions of the American Dream. “The characters’ dreams and aspirations provide insight into their motivations, struggles, and the complexities of their identities,” says Wilson. Troy and Cory want to grow and succeed in life. The drama also examines family and social expectations vs. personal goals. “Fences” explores personal ambition, societal limits, and the impact of achieving goals via the characters’ fantasies.

The Play’s Commentary on the American Dream

For everybody who has tried to achieve the American Dream despite its elusiveness, “Fences” offers incisive analysis. August Wilson challenges the simplistic, upwardly mobile American Dream. The play “interrogates the myth of the American Dream and exposes the systemic barriers that prevent marginalized communities from achieving upward mobility,” according to Wilson. The drama tackles American Dream justice and diversity via characters like Troy, who faces racial prejudice and restricted chances. “Fences” explores the gap between ambitions and realities to make us think critically about the American Dream’s restrictions and relevance in the current world.

Expectations of Children’s Dreams versus Parental Aspirations

“Fences” examines how the objectives of parents and children diverge. Troy’s disagreement with his son Cory’s goals is an example of the generational gap in the play. Johnson, a scholar, claims that “the play portrays the struggle between parental desires for stability and the yearning of children for personal fulfillment and self-expression” (Wilson). Troy wants Cory to stop playing football so he will not face his failure. “Fences” explores the complexities of parental expectations and personal objectives and the compromises and concessions made by parents and children via this clash.

The Significance of the Setting to the Play’s Themes

The setting of “Fences” greatly influences its themes and storyline. Pittsburgh’s urban location in the 1950s provides a backdrop against which the protagonists’ goals might be viewed. The play’s environment, particularly the run-down area, and the physical limitations represent the social and financial limits that the protagonists must face, claims Thompson’s literary interpretation of the play (Wilson). These issues are represented by the walls around the community and its bleak, divided environs. The setting focuses on how cultural expectations, racial discrimination, and economic disparity impact the protagonists and villains. The significance of the location in “Fences” highlights the neighborhood’s significance and the larger social context.

Racism and Oppression: Past and Present

Both “Fences”‘s historical context and its continued relevance in the present day force viewers to confront their own biases and injustices. The characters in August Wilson’s play show how pervasive racism still is in today’s society. Scholar Johnson writes that the play “reveals deeply ingrained societal prejudices and injustices that persist beyond the play’s time period” (Wilson), referring to the play’s discussion of racism and oppression. The characters of Troy and others in “Fences” portray the effects of racial injustice. The play inspires thought about institutional racism and the evolution of society through its use of flashbacks. The film “Fences” is about a fight for equality in the face of bigotry and injustice.

Family Obligations and Cultural Context

“Fences” characters are shaped by their families and their cultures. The narrative highlights the importance of duty, loyalty, and family. For example, Thompson notes in his critical study that “the play explores the influence of cultural expectations and family obligations on the choices and relationships of the characters” (Wilson). The protagonists’ racial and historical contexts as African Americans make these endeavors more challenging. The play “Fences” investigates family relationships, the price of caregiving, and the impact of cultural background on the obligation to care for one’s relatives. The play highlights the significance of the characters’ upbringing and cultural upbringing.

 Conclusion

Finally, August Wilson’s “Fences” analyzes several literary topics and approaches to illuminate the intricacies of human experience and societal challenges. The drama explores family dynamics and how actions influence loved ones. It highlights minority populations’ current and historical battles with racism and injustice.

The play also highlights how the American Dream is unattainable due to insurmountable institutional impediments. “Fences” also shows how to balance parents’ priorities with their children’s goals.

The play’s usage of “Fences,” which has several meanings, refers to the character’s physical and emotional boundaries. The play’s decaying neighborhood symbolizes the protagonists’ social and economic challenges. The drama analyzes family values and how cultural norms impact character decisions and interactions.

“Fences” explores human complexity, social restrictions, and goal-setting via a rich tapestry of topics and literary approaches. The play’s profound reflection on human difficulties, dreams, and goals makes it appealing.

“Fences” has persisted because it may make readers reflect on themselves, their relationships, and the world. It forces us to face our limitations, injustices, and ambitions. Immersing ourselves in “Fences” forces us to rethink our presumptions and get a more profound knowledge of human experience.

Bigsby, Christopher. “The Cambridge Companion to August Wilson.”  Google Books , Cambridge University Press, 29 Nov. 2007, books.google.com/books/about/The_Cambridge_Companion_to_August_Wilson.html?id=Ok5TrLfl1oQC.

Wilson, August. “Fences by August Wilson.”  Open Library , Plume/Penguin, 1 Jan. 1986, openlibrary.org/books/OL18186126M/Fences.

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• How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

• Start with a question
• Write your initial answer
• Develop your answer
• Refine your thesis statement

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What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

• Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
• Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
• Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

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The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

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Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

• Why you hold this position
• What they’ll learn from your essay
• The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

• In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
• In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

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Interpretive Analysis: Fences

Updated 03 June 2022

Subject Movies ,  Racism

Downloads 39

Category Entertainment ,  Social Issues

Topic Fences ,  Racial Segregation

Kelley contends that Wilson's "Fences" has remained relevant over time due to its lively exploration of subjects such as injustice, selfishness, and the coming of age of the broken black man. The article defines segregation as the obvious racist behavior that separated black and white people, while coming of age is the advancement that distinguished Tory's generation from that of his son, Cory. As a result, the aim of this essay is to objectively examine the three themes by examining the various behavior of the protagonist, Troy Maxson, to those who associate with him. As the play opens, Troy is brought out as a garbage collector who occasionally complains to his boss, Mr. Rand, about the inequality of the black people at the work place, where only white people are allowed to drive garbage trucks while the black people are restricted to lifting the garbage. As Blumenthal argues, such assertion by Troy paints him as an individual who believes he has every right to receive what the world did not give him when he was younger. Kelley points out that at the time, Troy is 53 years old, having suffered an abusive childhood where his father beat him mercilessly. As the play unfolds, we are introduced to Rose, Troy’s wife, who loyally trusts her husband and requests him to build a fence around their compound in an effort to protect their love. Ladrica describes Rose as a good wife who cared about her family’s well being and one who was God fearing as she is seen singing about Jesus as a “fence” to protect their family. By representing Jesus as a “fence”, Wilson intelligently uses metaphors and symbols to illustrate the notion of religion among the black community at the time. Ladrica further notes that despite Rose’s keen interest in her son joining the football team, Troy is rather angered by his son’s actions to follow after football practice instead of helping around the compound as he did during his young age. At a later stage, as Shackel and Jack describe, Tory is seen arguing with Cory over his interest in joining the college football club over working at the local grocery store. On the one hand, Tory’s argument is seen to stem from his concern for his son’s future by advising him to maintain working as it is best for his future as a black person. He is seen advising his son that in order to play successfully in a major league, he requires to be twice as good as white people, and he asserts that the college football team is composed of only white people.On the other hand, Tory’s argument in advising his son to stay away from college football is seen as a selfish act fuelled by his current disillusionment in life given that over his fifteen years of playing in the negro baseball clubs he never had the opportunity to play for a major league club. It is only later that we see Rose advising Troy that the current world is unlike the world he lived in with more opportunities being availed for the black man given that a coach had promised to travel all the way from Pittsburgh to see Cory play. Consequently, this points to both themes of racism and the coming of age of the black man as it is evident that racism has reduced during Cory’s time compared to his. Similarly, more opportunities have been provided unlike previous times. Blumenthal further highlights Troy’s unfaithfulness to Rose as she notes that he insensitively cheats on her and proceeds to have a child with his mistress, who she brings to her to bring up upon the death of her mother. The actions are seen to be insensitive and selfish on his part and those stemming from a desire to receive what he thought the world had rightly denied him as a young man, through the mistreatment by his father. As such, he resorts to treating everyone around him in a contemptuous manner and in a way that displays discrimination.Ladrica further introduces Gabriel, Troy’s younger brother who had been injured in the war and was now currently under his care. While the act of caring seems noble and justifiable, it is only later that we understand that Troy had signed up Gabriel for an asylum in an attempt to ensure that he received part of the money appropriated for Gabriel following his injury from war. Selfishness is highly illustrated with the actions as Troy is seen to act in a manner that considers only his own benefit without considering those close to him.Further, as the play progresses, we see Troy kicking his son Cory out of their home citing that it is time for him to earn his own living. While a heated argument arises regarding the actions, the theme of selfishness easily springs up as Cory reveals that the house from which he is being thrown out from rightfully belongs to Gabriel as his pay cheques were utilized in paying for the house. The action on the one hand, points out the selfishness of Troy in denying his son a place of living yet he did not own the premises. On the other hand, it also points out the theme of the coming of age of the black man as Cory was able to come up with arguments to challenge his father’s actions. As Kelley notes, when Troy was kicked out of his father’s house, he did not argue or complain, but rather decided to move out. Cory’s argument shows how he has been able to progress despite being a black person at the time.In conclusion, the three themes: selfishness; racism; and coming of age of the black man are succinctly shown in the Wilson’s “fences” through the protagonist, Troy and his actions towards those who relate with him and his son Cory, who demonstrates how the world he lives in has come of age unlike that of his father. Cory raises arguments regarding the actions of his father whenever he feels they are unfair towards him, and as well, even at his father’s funeral, he is seen in attendance owing to the maturity of thought and being able to overcome the current challenges of mistreatment. As such, Wilson’s “fences” remains a classic worth reading as it offers countless lessons that are still relevant to this day.ReferencesBlumenthal, Anna S. “’More Stories Than the Devil Got Sinners’: Troy’s Stories in August Wilson’s Fences .” Contemporary Literary Criticism .Vol. 222. Detroit: Gale, 2006. 74-96. Gale .Web. 18 November 2009Kelley, Steve. "August Wilson’S Raw ‘Fences’ Still Has Relevance." The Seattle Times. N.p., 2010. Web. 30 Oct. 2017.Menson-Furr, Ladrica. August Wilson's Fences. London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2013. Print.Schakel, Peter J, and Jack Ridl. Approaching Literature In The 21St Century. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2008. Print.

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25 Thesis Statement Examples That Will Make Writing a Breeze

Understanding what makes a good thesis statement is one of the major keys to writing a great research paper or argumentative essay. The thesis statement is where you make a claim that will guide you through your entire paper. If you find yourself struggling to make sense of your paper or your topic, then it's likely due to a weak thesis statement.

Let's take a minute to first understand what makes a solid thesis statement, and what key components you need to write one of your own.

A thesis statement always goes at the beginning of the paper. It will typically be in the first couple of paragraphs of the paper so that it can introduce the body paragraphs, which are the supporting evidence for your thesis statement.

Your thesis statement should clearly identify an argument. You need to have a statement that is not only easy to understand, but one that is debatable. What that means is that you can't just put any statement of fact and have it be your thesis. For example, everyone knows that puppies are cute . An ineffective thesis statement would be, "Puppies are adorable and everyone knows it." This isn't really something that's a debatable topic.

Something that would be more debatable would be, "A puppy's cuteness is derived from its floppy ears, small body, and playfulness." These are three things that can be debated on. Some people might think that the cutest thing about puppies is the fact that they follow you around or that they're really soft and fuzzy.

All cuteness aside, you want to make sure that your thesis statement is not only debatable, but that it also actually thoroughly answers the research question that was posed. You always want to make sure that your evidence is supporting a claim that you made (and not the other way around). This is why it's crucial to read and research about a topic first and come to a conclusion later. If you try to get your research to fit your thesis statement, then it may not work out as neatly as you think. As you learn more, you discover more (and the outcome may not be what you originally thought).

Additionally, your thesis statement shouldn't be too big or too grand. It'll be hard to cover everything in a thesis statement like, "The federal government should act now on climate change." The topic is just too large to actually say something new and meaningful. Instead, a more effective thesis statement might be, "Local governments can combat climate change by providing citizens with larger recycling bins and offering local classes about composting and conservation." This is easier to work with because it's a smaller idea, but you can also discuss the overall topic that you might be interested in, which is climate change.

So, now that we know what makes a good, solid thesis statement, you can start to write your own. If you find that you're getting stuck or you are the type of person who needs to look at examples before you start something, then check out our list of thesis statement examples below.

Thesis statement examples

A quick note that these thesis statements have not been fully researched. These are merely examples to show you what a thesis statement might look like and how you can implement your own ideas into one that you think of independently. As such, you should not use these thesis statements for your own research paper purposes. They are meant to be used as examples only.

• Vaccinations Because many children are unable to vaccinate due to illness, we must require that all healthy and able children be vaccinated in order to have herd immunity.
• Educational Resources for Low-Income Students Schools should provide educational resources for low-income students during the summers so that they don't forget what they've learned throughout the school year.
• School Uniforms School uniforms may be an upfront cost for families, but they eradicate the visual differences in income between students and provide a more egalitarian atmosphere at school.
• Populism The rise in populism on the 2016 political stage was in reaction to increasing globalization, the decline of manufacturing jobs, and the Syrian refugee crisis.
• Public Libraries Libraries are essential resources for communities and should be funded more heavily by local municipalities.
• Cyber Bullying With more and more teens using smartphones and social media, cyber bullying is on the rise. Cyber bullying puts a lot of stress on many teens, and can cause depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Parents should limit the usage of smart phones, monitor their children's online activity, and report any cyber bullying to school officials in order to combat this problem.
• Medical Marijuana for Veterans Studies have shown that the use of medicinal marijuana has been helpful to veterans who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Medicinal marijuana prescriptions should be legal in all states and provided to these veterans. Additional medical or therapy services should also be researched and implemented in order to help them re-integrate back into civilian life.
• Work-Life Balance Corporations should provide more work from home opportunities and six-hour workdays so that office workers have a better work-life balance and are more likely to be productive when they are in the office.
• Teaching Youths about Consensual Sex Although sex education that includes a discussion of consensual sex would likely lead to less sexual assault, parents need to teach their children the meaning of consent from a young age with age appropriate lessons.
• Whether or Not to Attend University A degree from a university provides invaluable lessons on life and a future career, but not every high school student should be encouraged to attend a university directly after graduation. Some students may benefit from a trade school or a "gap year" where they can think more intensely about what it is they want to do for a career and how they can accomplish this.
• Studying Abroad Studying abroad is one of the most culturally valuable experiences you can have in college. It is the only way to get completely immersed in another language and learn how other cultures and countries are different from your own.
• Women's Body Image Magazines have done a lot in the last five years to include a more diverse group of models, but there is still a long way to go to promote a healthy woman's body image collectively as a culture.
• Cigarette Tax Heavily taxing and increasing the price of cigarettes is essentially a tax on the poorest Americans, and it doesn't deter them from purchasing. Instead, the state and federal governments should target those economically disenfranchised with early education about the dangers of smoking.
• Veganism A vegan diet, while a healthy and ethical way to consume food, indicates a position of privilege. It also limits you to other cultural food experiences if you travel around the world.
• University Athletes Should be Compensated University athletes should be compensated for their service to the university, as it is difficult for these students to procure and hold a job with busy academic and athletic schedules. Many student athletes on scholarship also come from low-income neighborhoods and it is a struggle to make ends meet when they are participating in athletics.
• Women in the Workforce Sheryl Sandberg makes a lot of interesting points in her best-selling book, Lean In , but she only addressed the very privileged working woman and failed to speak to those in lower-skilled, lower-wage jobs.
• Assisted Suicide Assisted suicide should be legal and doctors should have the ability to make sure their patients have the end-of-life care that they want to receive.
• Celebrity and Political Activism Although Taylor Swift's lyrics are indicative of a feminist perspective, she should be more politically active and vocal to use her position of power for the betterment of society.
• The Civil War The insistence from many Southerners that the South seceded from the Union for states' rights versus the fact that they seceded for the purposes of continuing slavery is a harmful myth that still affects race relations today.
• Blue Collar Workers Coal miners and other blue-collar workers whose jobs are slowly disappearing from the workforce should be re-trained in jobs in the technology sector or in renewable energy. A program to re-train these workers would not only improve local economies where jobs have been displaced, but would also lead to lower unemployment nationally.
• Diversity in the Workforce Having a diverse group of people in an office setting leads to richer ideas, more cooperation, and more empathy between people with different skin colors or backgrounds.
• Re-Imagining the Nuclear Family The nuclear family was traditionally defined as one mother, one father, and 2.5 children. This outdated depiction of family life doesn't quite fit with modern society. The definition of normal family life shouldn't be limited to two-parent households.
• Digital Literacy Skills With more information readily available than ever before, it's crucial that students are prepared to examine the material they're reading and determine whether or not it's a good source or if it has misleading information. Teaching students digital literacy and helping them to understand the difference between opinion or propaganda from legitimate, real information is integral.
• Beauty Pageants Beauty pageants are presented with the angle that they empower women. However, putting women in a swimsuit on a stage while simultaneously judging them on how well they answer an impossible question in a short period of time is cruel and purely for the amusement of men. Therefore, we should stop televising beauty pageants.
• Supporting More Women to Run for a Political Position In order to get more women into political positions, more women must run for office. There must be a grassroots effort to educate women on how to run for office, who among them should run, and support for a future candidate for getting started on a political career.

Still stuck? Need some help with your thesis statement?

If you are still uncertain about how to write a thesis statement or what a good thesis statement is, be sure to consult with your teacher or professor to make sure you're on the right track. It's always a good idea to check in and make sure that your thesis statement is making a solid argument and that it can be supported by your research.

After you're done writing, it's important to have someone take a second look at your paper so that you can ensure there are no mistakes or errors. It's difficult to spot your own mistakes, which is why it's always recommended to have someone help you with the revision process, whether that's a teacher, the writing center at school, or a professional editor such as one from ServiceScape .

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American Dream: “Fences” by August Wilson Essay

Introduction, intersection of racism with the attainment of the american dream in “fences”, conclusion/importance of my interpretation, works cited.

The play ‘Fences” by August Wilson explores the delicate issue of racism by interrogating the experiences of a black family as tracked in a number of decades. The effects of racism revealed in several instances in ‘Fences’ contradicts the national ethos of the American dream.

The title of the play alludes on the boundary that exists between the whites and the blacks in the United States of America. The American dream makes it clear through its guarantee of the freedom and equality with the promise of prosperity and success as per the ability or personal achievements of every American citizen. “Fences” reveals the obstacles that the different issues of race put on the way towards the realization of the American dream by the African-Americans with a close analysis of the characters in the play.

Throughout the two generations that are represented in the play; Troy’s and Cory’s, the experiences of the black man tend to take an important change for the better (Koprince 346). The woes of the black American however, as revealed in the tales that Troy and Boon exchange started way back and are rooted in the slavery experience of the blacks. According to the tales, when the blacks were freed, they migrated from the south towards the north where they expected to lead much better lives with plenty opportunities.

However, an obvious sense of disillusionment follows this considering that they had no resources and infrastructure to depend upon. As emphasized through Troy’s experiences as a youth, the blacks were cast into a competitive capitalistic society while they were unprepared. This explains the reason why Troy, having left his father at a tender age had to live in shanties, steal and end up in prison.

The sense of equal opportunities was not appreciable those days despite the fact that the American state had declared freedom and equality to everyone regardless of the race (Miller 44). The prison experience provides a deeper explanation as to the disproportionate number of blacks to whites in American prisons.

The fact that Troy was a skilled baseball player in his youthful days but never found him a chance to get a place in the Major League Baseball due to the color of his skin beats the essence of the American dream (Koprince 345). Despite the fact that he was skilled and could play better than most white players could in the league, Troy could not secure a favor of acceptance in the league following the regulations that were in place aimed at racially discriminating the blacks.

Troy could have used this opportunity and earned a living as well as bridge the gap by climbing up the social ladder as provided for by the American dream. However, this was not the case, as the administrators could not allow him since it was until much later when he was already aged that the league administrators started accepting black players into the teams. This discrimination as portrayed through Troy deprives the African Americans the chance of making it in life despite their abilities.

When Troy’s son Cory is given the chance to join his college football team, Troy opposes the idea and says, “The white man aint’ gonna let him get nowhere with that football” (Wilson 915). This expresses his disillusionment with the system basing his argument on the experiences he had had earlier on in his life. Troy has to work even while he is aging to provide for his family while he could have saved from his abilities as a baseball player and used the money later.

In Act One of ‘Fences”, Troy’s character as a crusader of the black American rights is revealed when he stands up against the oppressive and racially discriminative decrees at his work place. This is where he faces the company manager at his workplace and asks him why other races denied the black men a chance to drive garbage trucks but were only working as garbage lifters in the company. His courage seems portrayed in his words to his boss.

He says, “That’s all I did. I went to Mr. Rand and asked him, why? Why you got the white men’s driving and the colored lifting?” (Wilson 913). This portrays his reaction to a system that sets limits on the black man despite his capabilities. The blacks seemed subjected to handle only the menial jobs that could never see them through financially. By driving the garbage trucks, the whites were being favored at the expense of the blacks who handled more hefty duties but earned less.

The fact that the long journey towards the realization of the American dream seems to take place during the times of troy can never escape the notice of a keenly interested reader of ‘Fences’” (Koprince 349). The claim follows several changes towards the attainment of the dream where absolute freedom and the upheaval of human rights hold take place throughout the play.

For instance, Troy’s grandparents had been slaves up until when Abraham Lincoln declared the abolition of slavery. “They sold the use of their muscles and bodies. They cleaned houses and washed clothes, they shined shoes and, in quiet desperation and vengeful pride, they stole and lived in pursuit of their dreams.

That they could breathe free, finally, and stand to meet life with the force of dignity and whatever eloquence the heart could call upon. (Wilson 912). There is a major transition from slavery towards freedom portrayed in fences. This is a major step in that it was the first stepping-stone towards the realization of the dream that puts emphasis on personal liberty and freedom.

As the play continues, several changes for the better take place. These include the change in the regulations that regulated the national league baseball to start accepting black players and labor rules. However, this took a lot of time to an extent that the delay cost Troy a career that could have meant a better life for him.

Later on in Act 2, Troy wins his quest in the garbage truck driving case securing the opportunity to become the first African American to drive the garbage trucks in his town. This mirrors the reality of the time when the play is set when the black movement was holding demonstrations against the oppressive white dominated regime.

The fact that it is Troy, who secures the first opportunity, one can view it as reflecting the strategies used by the oppressive regime to silence those championing for the rights of through incentives.

Once the person leading the liberation or anti racist movement accepted bribery, the demonstrations and constant pestering ended, a case perceived as possible considering the story of the African American that Troy and his wife talks about earlier on in the play that won a lottery and completely turned against his fellow blacks and became prejudiced against his own race.

Troy says, “I seen a white fellow come in there and order a bowl of stew. Pope picked all the meat out the pot for him. Man ain’t had anything but a bowl of meat! Negro come behind him and ain’t got nothing but the potatoes and carrots” (Wilson 923). This was after the Pope had refused serving a fellow black man.

My style of interpretation plays an important role to the Americans as it reveals the position of racism as a major barrier in their effort to realize their dream. Based on the expositions made in the paper, the promises that the American dream offers to the Americans seem delayed and counteracted by racism as portrayed in “Fences”. This stands out through a keen observation of the happenings in the play as they revolve around the lives of people in a black family.

The conditions and experiences as subjected to the African Americans seem clear through their living conditions, which contrast the aspects of the American dream of giving the people an opportunity to lead richer and fuller lives with their rights intact as their creator (Miller 90) predestines them. The simplistic setting of the play in Troy’s yard symbolizes the humble conditions of the blacks despite having had opportunities to change their lives and make them fuller and more complete (Willie 165).

Troy dies still struggling with the effects of racism despite the fact that he was born after the abolition of slavery, which did not straighten the conditions for black Americans. This reveals that the attainment of the American dream is a means to an end rather than an end in itself with the revelations of its promises occurring gradually with time.

Miller, Arthur. Death of a Salesman. Oxford: Oxford UP, 1987.

Koprince, Susan. Baseball as history and myth in August Wilson’s Fences. African American Review 40.2 (2006): 343-356.

Willie, Harrell. The Reality of American Life Has Strayed From Its Myths. Journal of Black Studies 41 (2010): 164-183.

Wilson, August. Fences. New York: Kissinger publications, 1990.

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25 Thesis Statement Examples

A thesis statement is needed in an essay or dissertation . There are multiple types of thesis statements – but generally we can divide them into expository and argumentative. An expository statement is a statement of fact (common in expository essays and process essays) while an argumentative statement is a statement of opinion (common in argumentative essays and dissertations). Below are examples of each.

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

“Mandatory school uniforms should be implemented in educational institutions as they promote a sense of equality, reduce distractions, and foster a focused and professional learning environment.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay or Debate

Read More: School Uniforms Pros and Cons

2. Nature vs Nurture

“This essay will explore how both genetic inheritance and environmental factors equally contribute to shaping human behavior and personality.”

Best For: Compare and Contrast Essay

Read More: Nature vs Nurture Debate

3. American Dream

“The American Dream, a symbol of opportunity and success, is increasingly elusive in today’s socio-economic landscape, revealing deeper inequalities in society.”

Best For: Persuasive Essay

Read More: What is the American Dream?

4. Social Media

“Social media has revolutionized communication and societal interactions, but it also presents significant challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation.”

Best For: Expository Essay

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Social Media

5. Globalization

“Globalization has created a world more interconnected than ever before, yet it also amplifies economic disparities and cultural homogenization.”

Read More: Globalization Pros and Cons

6. Urbanization

“Urbanization drives economic growth and social development, but it also poses unique challenges in sustainability and quality of life.”

Read More: Learn about Urbanization

7. Immigration

“Immigration enriches receiving countries culturally and economically, outweighing any perceived social or economic burdens.”

Read More: Immigration Pros and Cons

8. Cultural Identity

“In a globalized world, maintaining distinct cultural identities is crucial for preserving cultural diversity and fostering global understanding, despite the challenges of assimilation and homogenization.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay

Read More: Learn about Cultural Identity

9. Technology

“Medical technologies in care institutions in Toronto has increased subjcetive outcomes for patients with chronic pain.”

Best For: Research Paper

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

“The debate between capitalism and socialism centers on balancing economic freedom and inequality, each presenting distinct approaches to resource distribution and social welfare.”

11. Cultural Heritage

“The preservation of cultural heritage is essential, not only for cultural identity but also for educating future generations, outweighing the arguments for modernization and commercialization.”

12. Pseudoscience

“Pseudoscience, characterized by a lack of empirical support, continues to influence public perception and decision-making, often at the expense of scientific credibility.”

Read More: Examples of Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

“The concept of free will is largely an illusion, with human behavior and decisions predominantly determined by biological and environmental factors.”

Read More: Do we have Free Will?

14. Gender Roles

“Traditional gender roles are outdated and harmful, restricting individual freedoms and perpetuating gender inequalities in modern society.”

Read More: What are Traditional Gender Roles?

15. Work-Life Ballance

“The trend to online and distance work in the 2020s led to improved subjective feelings of work-life balance but simultaneously increased self-reported loneliness.”

Read More: Work-Life Balance Examples

16. Universal Healthcare

“Universal healthcare is a fundamental human right and the most effective system for ensuring health equity and societal well-being, outweighing concerns about government involvement and costs.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

“The implementation of a fair minimum wage is vital for reducing economic inequality, yet it is often contentious due to its potential impact on businesses and employment rates.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Raising the Minimum Wage

18. Homework

“The homework provided throughout this semester has enabled me to achieve greater self-reflection, identify gaps in my knowledge, and reinforce those gaps through spaced repetition.”

Best For: Reflective Essay

Read More: Reasons Homework Should be Banned

19. Charter Schools

“Charter schools offer alternatives to traditional public education, promising innovation and choice but also raising questions about accountability and educational equity.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

“The Internet has drastically reshaped human communication, access to information, and societal dynamics, generally with a net positive effect on society.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

“Affirmative action is essential for rectifying historical injustices and achieving true meritocracy in education and employment, contrary to claims of reverse discrimination.”

Best For: Essay

Read More: Affirmative Action Pros and Cons

22. Soft Skills

“Soft skills, such as communication and empathy, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in the modern workforce, and therefore should be a strong focus at school and university level.”

Read More: Soft Skills Examples

23. Moral Panic

“Moral panic, often fueled by media and cultural anxieties, can lead to exaggerated societal responses that sometimes overlook rational analysis and evidence.”

Read More: Moral Panic Examples

24. Freedom of the Press

“Freedom of the press is critical for democracy and informed citizenship, yet it faces challenges from censorship, media bias, and the proliferation of misinformation.”

Read More: Freedom of the Press Examples

25. Mass Media

“Mass media shapes public opinion and cultural norms, but its concentration of ownership and commercial interests raise concerns about bias and the quality of information.”

Best For: Critical Analysis

Read More: Mass Media Examples

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

✅ Position: If your statement is for an argumentative or persuasive essay, or a dissertation, ensure it takes a clear stance on the topic. ✅ Specificity: It addresses a specific aspect of the topic, providing focus for the essay. ✅ Conciseness: Typically, a thesis statement is one to two sentences long. It should be concise, clear, and easily identifiable. ✅ Direction: The thesis statement guides the direction of the essay, providing a roadmap for the argument, narrative, or explanation. ✅ Evidence-based: While the thesis statement itself doesn’t include evidence, it sets up an argument that can be supported with evidence in the body of the essay. ✅ Placement: Generally, the thesis statement is placed at the end of the introduction of an essay.

Try These AI Prompts – Thesis Statement Generator!

One way to brainstorm thesis statements is to get AI to brainstorm some for you! Try this AI prompt:

💡 AI PROMPT FOR EXPOSITORY THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTUCTIONS]. I want you to create an expository thesis statement that doesn’t argue a position, but demonstrates depth of knowledge about the topic.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR ARGUMENTATIVE THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTRUCTIONS]. I want you to create an argumentative thesis statement that clearly takes a position on this issue.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR COMPARE AND CONTRAST THESIS STATEMENT I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that remain objective.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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