Why does Gabriel blow his horn?

The second important action in Scene Five is Gabriel’s entrance to blow the trumpet and let Troy into heaven. Earlier in the play, Gabriel assured Troy that St. Peter had his name written in his book in heaven. This would be his ticket through the pearly gates. Gabriel’s trumpet, however, does not emit a sound. Gabriel does not give up and begins a ritual dance. This dance is open to interpretation by the audience, but its power is that it achieves Troy’s redemption. The gates of heaven are opened. Gabriel, thus, is the play’s redeeming figure. He represents the victory of innocence and family bonds. He does not give up on Troy even while his wife and son are ready to be done with the man. Troy becomes the redeemed, though deeply flawed, hero.