By Gregory Maguire
Introduction —
Welcome to the enchanting world of Gregory Maguire’s Wicked! 🌟 This captivating novel, first published in 1995, reimagines the land of Oz long before Dorothy’s arrival. Maguire, known for his unique twists on classic tales, crafts a story that delves deep into the life of Elphaba, the infamous Wicked Witch of the West. This dark fantasy explores themes of good and evil, identity, and the complexities of moral choices. Set in the whimsical yet politically charged land of Oz, Wicked offers a fresh perspective on the beloved characters from L. Frank Baum’s original series, inviting readers to reconsider everything they thought they knew about Oz.
Plot Summary
Wicked is a tale that redefines the boundaries between good and evil, presenting a complex narrative filled with political intrigue, personal struggle, and societal critique.
Exposition
The story begins with the birth of Elphaba in Munchkinland. Born with green skin, Elphaba faces prejudice and is ostracized from an early age. Her father, Frexspar, is a zealous preacher, while her mother, Melena, is neglectful and resentful. Elphaba’s early years are marked by loneliness and a sense of not belonging.
Rising Action
Elphaba attends Shiz University, where she meets Galinda (later Glinda the Good Witch). Despite their initial animosity, the two become friends. Elphaba’s intelligence and strong moral compass lead her to question the injustices she sees in society. She becomes involved in political activism, fighting against the oppressive regime of the Wizard of Oz. Along the way, Elphaba falls in love with Fiyero, a charismatic prince.
Climax
The climax of the novel occurs when Elphaba’s rebellion against the Wizard’s tyranny reaches its peak. In a desperate bid to save innocent lives, Elphaba commits a series of radical acts, including breaking into the Wizard’s palace. Her actions, however, lead to unintended consequences, including the death of her lover, Fiyero.
Falling Action
Devastated by Fiyero’s death, Elphaba retreats to Kiamo Ko, a remote castle, and becomes reclusive. She continues her fight against the Wizard’s forces, but her efforts are increasingly seen as acts of terrorism. The people of Oz view her as a villain, further isolating her.
Resolution
The novel concludes with the arrival of Dorothy Gale. Elphaba’s attempts to retrieve her sister Nessarose’s magical shoes from Dorothy end tragically. Dorothy inadvertently kills Elphaba by throwing water on her, fulfilling the prophecy of the Wicked Witch’s demise. The story ends on a poignant note, questioning the nature of good and evil and the role of fate in our lives.
Character Analysis
Wicked boasts a rich cast of characters, each with their own motivations, flaws, and growth throughout the narrative.
Elphaba
- Personality: Intelligent, morally driven, fiercely independent
- Motivations: Seeking justice and equality, fighting against oppression
- Development: Transforms from a misunderstood child into a revolutionary figure, ultimately becoming the so-called Wicked Witch
Glinda
- Personality: Charming, ambitious, initially superficial
- Motivations: Seeks social status and approval, eventually grows to value true friendship and integrity
- Development: Evolves from a shallow girl to a more mature, understanding individual, embracing her role as Glinda the Good
Fiyero
- Personality: Charismatic, carefree, deeply introspective
- Motivations: Seeks meaning and purpose, drawn to Elphaba’s strength and ideals
- Development: His love for Elphaba leads him to question his own values and ultimately sacrifices himself for their cause
Nessarose
- Personality: Devout, dependent, initially sympathetic
- Motivations: Desires love and acceptance, heavily influenced by religious beliefs
- Development: Becomes increasingly authoritarian and bitter, eventually ruling Munchkinland with an iron fist
Character Analysis Summary
Character | Personality | Motivations | Development |
---|---|---|---|
Elphaba | Intelligent, morally driven | Justice, equality | From misunderstood child to revolutionary figure, becoming the Wicked Witch |
Glinda | Charming, ambitious | Social status, approval | From superficial girl to mature, understanding individual, embracing role as Glinda the Good |
Fiyero | Charismatic, carefree | Meaning, purpose | Questions values, sacrifices himself for Elphaba |
Nessarose | Devout, dependent | Love, acceptance | Becomes authoritarian ruler of Munchkinland |
Themes and Symbols
Wicked is rich with themes and symbols that add depth to its narrative, inviting readers to reflect on broader societal issues.
Major Themes
- Good vs. Evil: The novel challenges traditional notions of good and evil, presenting characters with complex moralities.
- Identity and Self-Discovery: Elphaba’s journey is one of self-discovery, exploring the formation of identity in a prejudiced society.
- Power and Oppression: The Wizard’s regime symbolizes political tyranny and the struggle against oppressive forces.
- Friendship and Loyalty: The evolving friendship between Elphaba and Glinda highlights the importance of loyalty and personal growth.
Significant Symbols
- Elphaba’s Green Skin: Represents otherness and societal prejudice.
- The Shoes: Symbolize power and the burden of legacy, especially in Nessarose’s and Dorothy’s possession.
- The Clock of the Time Dragon: Serves as a metaphor for fate and the passage of time, influencing the characters’ lives.
Style and Tone
Gregory Maguire employs a distinctive style and tone in Wicked that enhances the story’s mood and atmosphere.
- Dark and Satirical: The tone often veers towards dark satire, critiquing societal norms and political systems.
- Descriptive and Detailed: Maguire’s prose is rich with detailed descriptions, bringing the world of Oz to life.
- Philosophical and Reflective: The narrative frequently delves into philosophical musings on morality, identity, and destiny.
- Character-Driven: The story is heavily character-driven, with deep psychological exploration of the main characters.
Literary Devices used in Wicked
- Symbolism
- Irony
- Foreshadowing
- Metaphor
- Allegory
- Allusion
- Imagery
- Personification
- Juxtaposition
- Motif
1. Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. For instance, Elphaba’s green skin symbolizes her otherness and societal prejudice.
2. Irony: The contrast between expectation and reality. The ironic twist that the so-called Wicked Witch is fighting for justice and equality.
3. Foreshadowing: Hints or clues about what will happen later in the story. The Clock of the Time Dragon often foreshadows significant events.
4. Metaphor: A figure of speech that describes an object or action as something other than what it is. Elphaba is a “witch” not just in magical terms but in how society demonizes her.
5. Allegory: A story that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning. The novel serves as an allegory for political oppression and the nature of evil.
6. Allusion: A reference to another work of literature or historical event. References to Baum’s original Wizard of Oz series are scattered throughout the novel.
7. Imagery: Descriptive language that appeals to the senses. Maguire’s vivid descriptions of the landscapes and settings in Oz.
8. Personification: Attributing human characteristics to non-human entities. The Clock of the Time Dragon is given lifelike qualities.
9. Juxtaposition: Placing two elements close together to present a comparison or contrast. The contrasting lives and personalities of Elphaba and Glinda.
10. Motif: A recurring element that has symbolic significance. The motif of eyes and seeing is prevalent throughout the novel, symbolizing perception and truth.
Literary Device Examples
Symbolism
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
Elphaba’s green skin | Represents societal prejudice |
The shoes | Symbolize power and legacy |
The Clock of the Time Dragon | Metaphor for fate and time |
Irony
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
Elphaba fighting for justice | Contrasts with her image as the Wicked Witch |
Glinda’s initial superficiality | Ironic because she becomes Glinda the Good |
The Wizard’s supposed benevolence | Contrasted with his oppressive regime |
Foreshadowing
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
The Clock of the Time Dragon’s prophecies | Hints at future events |
Elphaba’s early acts of rebellion | Foreshadows her larger fight against oppression |
Fiy |
ero’s fascination with Elphaba | Foreshadows their tragic romance |
Metaphor
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
Elphaba as a “witch” | Society’s demonization of the different |
Oz’s political landscape | Mirrors real-world political oppression |
Elphaba’s broomstick | Represents freedom and escape |
Allegory
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
Elphaba’s story | Allegory for the nature of evil |
The Wizard’s regime | Represents political tyranny |
Munchkinland’s social dynamics | Reflects societal hierarchies |
Allusion
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
References to Baum’s Wizard of Oz | Connects to the original series |
Glinda’s name change | Alludes to her transformation in the original series |
The Emerald City | Alludes to the mythical city in Wizard of Oz |
Imagery
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
Descriptions of Oz’s landscapes | Creates vivid images of the settings |
Elphaba’s appearance | Vivid descriptions highlight her uniqueness |
The Clock of the Time Dragon | Detailed imagery brings it to life |
Personification
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
The Clock of the Time Dragon | Given lifelike qualities |
Animals in Oz | Some animals have human-like characteristics |
The land of Oz itself | Often described with human traits |
Juxtaposition
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
Elphaba and Glinda’s personalities | Highlights their differences and growth |
The Wizard’s public image vs. true nature | Contrasts benevolence with tyranny |
Elphaba’s noble goals vs. public perception | Emphasizes the complexity of her character |
Motif
Example | Explanation |
---|---|
Eyes and seeing | Symbolize perception and truth |
Green color | Recurring element symbolizing otherness |
The concept of “wickedness” | Explored throughout the novel |
Wicked – FAQs
Q1: What is the main theme of Wicked?
The main theme is the nature of good and evil, exploring how society’s perceptions can shape our understanding of these concepts.
Q2: How does Elphaba’s green skin affect her life?
Elphaba’s green skin makes her a target of prejudice and discrimination, shaping her identity and fueling her fight against societal injustice.
Q3: What role does Glinda play in the story?
Glinda starts as Elphaba’s adversary but becomes her friend and ally, ultimately transforming into Glinda the Good.
Q4: How does Wicked differ from the original Wizard of Oz series?
Wicked offers a darker, more complex perspective on the land of Oz, focusing on political and social issues and redefining familiar characters.
Q5: What is the significance of the Clock of the Time Dragon?
The Clock of the Time Dragon serves as a symbol of fate and destiny, often foreshadowing key events in the story.
Q6: Why is Elphaba considered a “Wicked” Witch?
Society labels Elphaba as wicked due to her rebellious actions and appearance, despite her fight for justice and equality.
Q7: What is the relationship between Elphaba and Fiyero?
Elphaba and Fiyero share a deep, complex love, with Fiyero ultimately sacrificing himself for their cause.
Q8: How does the Wizard’s regime affect Oz?
The Wizard’s regime is tyrannical, oppressing various groups and creating a climate of fear and control.
Q9: What literary devices are prominent in Wicked?
Prominent literary devices include symbolism, irony, foreshadowing, metaphor, allegory, and allusion.
Q10: What message does Wicked convey about societal norms?
Wicked critiques societal norms, challenging readers to question their perceptions of good, evil, and justice.
Quiz
Question | A | B | C | D |
---|---|---|---|---|
Who is Elphaba’s mother? | Melena | Nessarose | Glinda | Dorothy |
Where does Elphaba attend university? | Oz University | Shiz University | Munchkin University | Emerald City College |
What is the name of Elphaba’s love interest? | Fiyero | Frexspar | Boq | The Wizard |
What political regime does Elphaba fight against? | Munchkinland Government | Emerald City Council | Wizard’s Regime | Animal Council |
What color is Elphaba’s skin? | Blue | Green | Red | Yellow |
Who becomes Elphaba’s friend at Shiz University? | Nessarose | Melena | Dorothy | Glinda |
What object symbolizes power and legacy in the novel? | A wand | The shoes | A broomstick | The hat |
Where does Elphaba retreat after Fiyero’s death? | Munchkinland | Emerald City | Kiamo Ko | Shiz University |
What is the Clock of the Time Dragon a metaphor for? | Power | Time | Freedom | Fate |
Who inadvertently kills Elphaba? | The Wizard | Glinda | Nessarose | Dorothy |
Exercise
Paragraph from Wicked:
“Elphaba stood at the edge of the forest, her green skin glowing eerily under the moonlight. She could hear the whispers of the trees, as if they were speaking to her, warning her of the dangers that lay ahead. Clutching her broomstick, she took a deep breath and stepped forward, ready to face whatever challenges awaited her.”
Identify the literary devices used in the paragraph above:
- Imagery: “Her green skin glowing eerily under the moonlight.”
- Personification: “The whispers of the trees, as if they were speaking to her.”
- Foreshadowing: “Warning her of the dangers that lay ahead.”