Discovering the Legacy of August Wilson: A Comprehensive Guide to His Life and Works

August Wilson is a renowned playwright whose works shed light on the African American experience. Born Frederick August Kittel in 1945, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, August Wilson is recognized for his contributions to American theatre. His works have earned numerous awards, including two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama.

Early Life and Education

Wilson grew up in poverty in the Hill District of Pittsburgh, a community that would later serve as a setting for many of his plays. His mother, a cleaning woman, nurtured his love for literature and encouraged him to read voraciously. After dropping out of high school at 15, Wilson educated himself by reading extensively and visiting the Carnegie Library in Pittsburgh.

Discovering Drama

Wilson’s introduction to drama occurred when he stumbled upon a book containing ten plays by Tennessee Williams. The plays captured his imagination and inspired him to write plays of his own. In 1968, he legally changed his name to August Wilson, marking his commitment to becoming a playwright.

Major Works

Wilson’s most notable contributions to American theatre are his cycle of ten plays, collectively known as The Pittsburgh Cycle or The Century Cycle. Each play portrays a different decade in the 20th century, chronicling the African American experience. The plays, in order of their respective decades, are:

• Gem of the Ocean (1900s)
• Joe Turner’s Come and Gone (1910s)
• Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (1920s)
• The Piano Lesson (1930s)
• Seven Guitars (1940s)
• Fences (1950s)
• Two Trains Running (1960s)
• Jitney (1970s)
• King Hedley II (1980s)
• Radio Golf (1990s)

Legacy

Wilson’s works are not only significant in the context of American theatre but also for their exploration of the African American experience. His depictions of ordinary people striving for dignity and respect are relatable to audiences of all races and backgrounds. August Wilson’s work paved the way for many contemporary African American playwrights, including Suzan-Lori Parks and Tarell Alvin McCraney.

In conclusion, August Wilson’s contributions to American theatre are invaluable. By creating a body of work that preserves the African American experience, he has left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. His ten plays in The Pittsburgh Cycle are a must-read for anyone interested in theatre, literature, or understanding the African American experience.