Final answer:
Literary works present differing motives for building fences, ranging from maintaining respectful boundaries to controlling resources, reflecting the complex symbolism of fences in human interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The differing motives in building a fence as depicted in various literary works highlight contrasting human reactions to boundaries. In Robert Frost's Mending Wall, the line "Good fences make good neighbours" suggests that the neighbor upholds the fence as a symbol of respectful division, despite the speaker questioning its necessity.
On the other hand, historical accounts like the Wyoming Stock Growers' Association during the Johnson County War, illustrate how fences were used to claim and control land, leading to conflict.
Similarly, in narratives describing ranches and domestic spaces, fences can represent security or confinement. The use of fences is thematically rich, symbolizing various human desires from maintaining relationships to exerting control over resources or personal property.
In Robert Frost's poem 'Mending Wall,' the neighbor believes that 'good fences make good neighbors,' implying the need for boundaries and privacy.
In the play 'Fences' by August Wilson, the character Troy builds a fence in his backyard, symbolizing his desire to protect his family and keep them close. In both cases, the motives for building a fence revolve around the themes of boundaries, protection, and maintaining relationships.