The setting of the play Fences, written by August Wilson, takes place primarily in the 1950s in a working-class neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The main focus is on the Maxson family’s backyard, which symbolizes both their struggles and the boundaries they face in their lives.
The time period is significant as it reflects the challenges of African Americans during that era, including issues of racism, segregation, and the quest for identity and dignity. The backyard, where much of the action unfolds, serves not only as a physical space but also as a metaphor for the limitations imposed on the characters, particularly on Troy Maxson, the protagonist. Here, Troy grapples with his past, confronts his dreams and disappointments, and interacts with his family, revealing the complexities of love, responsibility, and conflict.
Overall, the setting is essential to understanding the themes of the play and the characters’ relationships, as it encapsulates the socioeconomic realities and personal struggles in mid-20th century America.