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Troy Trauma Essay

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Slavery in America lasted for over four hundred years and affected more than fifteen million men, women, and children. During those years African Americans were starved, shackled, raped, whipped, and had many other terrible acts done to them. Even though slavery was abolished in 1865, the effects continue and carry on through generations. For example, African Americans continued to eat chitlins (pig intestines), black-eyed peas, and okra because those were undesirable scraps given by slave owners. Similar to the generational trauma that slaves have passed down, Troy carried his trauma into his relationships with his children in August Wilson’s play Fences. This trauma includes having a skewed idea of the responsibilities of being a father, …show more content…

In addition, Cory should forgive Troy because he did respect, think highly, and love his children, he just didn’t know how to show it due to his past trauma as a child. Troy talks about the effects of his childhood on multiple occasions. From his mother leaving suddenly when he was eight, to his father in essence, trying to sexually assault his girlfriend, and his father not being emotionally present. In short, Troy has been through a lot and all these specific moments reiterate the idea of tough love and independence for Troy. These traumatizing moments affect the way Troy interacts with his kids, specifically Cory. For instance, when Troy is talking to Rose about Cory playing football, he immediately compares his baseball career to this situation with Cory. Troy tells Rose “I don’t want him to be like me”. I want him to move as far from my life as he can. I wish him that.” (Act I, Scene III) This statement shows that Troy wants Cory to have more than he had. In essence, he doesn't want to waste his life on a sport like he …show more content…

This conversation undoubtedly shows that Troy was thinking and talking about Cory to Raynell and maybe other people, but he probably is too scared to reach out due to some of his trust issues. Also, it seems like Troy is hoping that Cory will come back home eventually, as evidenced by the items being kept in “ Cory’s room” like the football. Finally, Cory should forgive Troy because he is trying to guide Cory and Lyons to the best of his abilities, even if some of his guidance doesn't have the best outcome. For instance, while Lyon is asking Troy for $10 as a loan, Troy tells Lyon, “I told you I know some people down there. I can get you on the road if you want to work.” (Act I, Scene I). Troy is telling Lyon this information because he wants him to have a more steady income and a “regular job”, so Lyon stops asking him for

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