Fences opens in 1957 in Pittsburgh, and the last scene takes place in 1965. Research the civil rights movement in the United States. How does the historical background affect the characters and setting of the play? Since each play of the Century Cycle is meant to reflect Black lives in a different decade of the 20th century, how does Wilson achieve such a representation in Fences?

Consider the character of Gabriel and his actions and dialogue in the play. Do you think that Gabriel is really an angel, or is he simply a man with a brain injury? Remember, the world of the play is fiction and does not have to be entirely realistic. Use evidence from the text to support your answer.

In the last scene of the play, Rose tells Cory that he is just like his father. Why do you think she says that? Do you agree? Why or why not?