The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Brief Intro

“The Wizard of Oz” (1939), directed by Victor Fleming, is a timeless classic that follows Dorothy’s magical journey from Kansas to the enchanting land of Oz. With memorable characters and a rich tapestry of literary and cinematic techniques, this film continues to captivate audiences of all ages.

Literary Devices Used in The Wizard of Oz

Here are 10 literary devices used in the film with specific examples for each:

1. Symbolism

Movie Scene	Device Example
Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers	Symbolize protection and the power to return home.
The Yellow Brick Road	Represents the journey and path to self-discovery.

2. Allegory

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Scarecrow’s Quest for a Brain	Allegorical for the pursuit of knowledge.
The Tin Man’s Quest for a Heart	Represents the search for emotional fulfillment.

3. Foreshadowing

Movie Scene	Device Example
Miss Gulch’s Transformation into the Wicked Witch	Foreshadows the danger and challenges in Oz.
Professor Marvel’s Predictions	Hint at the adventures Dorothy will face.

4. Irony

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Wizard’s Reveal	The mighty Wizard is just an ordinary man.
Scarecrow’s Intelligence	Despite believing he lacks a brain, he often provides clever solutions.

5. Metaphor

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Wicked Witch of the West	Metaphor for evil and obstacles in life.
The Emerald City	Represents the ultimate goal or dream.

6. Imagery

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Poppy Field	Vivid and enchanting visuals that contrast with its dangerous nature.
Munchkinland	Bright colors and whimsical designs create a fantastical setting.

7. Personification

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Talking Trees	The trees in the forest talk and express emotions.
The Scarecrow and Tin Man	Non-human characters with human traits and personalities.

8. Juxtaposition

Movie Scene	Device Example
Kansas vs. Oz	The dull, sepia-toned Kansas contrasts with the vibrant, colorful Oz.
The Wicked Witch vs. Glinda	Evil and good witches highlight moral contrasts.

9. Motif

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Repeated Use of “Over the Rainbow”	Emphasizes Dorothy’s longing for a better place.
“There’s no place like home”	Reinforces the central theme of home and belonging.

10. Allusion

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Wizard’s Hot Air Balloon	Alludes to the idea of escapism and adventure.
The Land of Oz	References various mythical and fantastical worlds from literature.

Character Analysis Through Literary Devices

Dorothy Gale

Device	Explanation
Symbolism	Dorothy’s journey symbolizes the search for identity and belonging.
Foreshadowing	Early scenes in Kansas foreshadow her inner strength and leadership qualities.

The Scarecrow

Device	Explanation
Irony	Despite believing he lacks a brain, he often demonstrates intelligence.
Allegory	Represents the value of intellectual pursuits and self-confidence.

The Tin Man

Device	Explanation
Metaphor	His rusting represents emotional stagnation and lack of love.
Allegory	His quest for a heart symbolizes the search for compassion and humanity.

The Cowardly Lion

Device	Explanation
Irony	His fearfulness contrasts with his actual bravery in critical moments.
Allegory	Represents the journey to find courage and self-belief.

Character Dynamics

The relationships between characters drive the narrative and themes by highlighting their individual quests and growth. Dorothy’s interactions with the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion emphasize themes of friendship, teamwork, and the collective journey towards self-improvement.

Thematic Analysis

Home and Belonging

Device	Explanation
Symbolism	Dorothy’s slippers symbolize the power to return home.
Motif	The repeated phrase “There’s no place like home” reinforces the theme.

Courage and Self-Discovery

Device	Explanation
Allegory	Each companion’s quest represents a different aspect of personal growth.
Foreshadowing	Early struggles hint at the characters’ eventual courage and self-awareness.

Good vs. Evil

Device	Explanation
Juxtaposition	The Wicked Witch and Glinda highlight the battle between good and evil.
Imagery	The dark castle of the Wicked Witch vs. the bright land of Oz.

Cinematic Techniques That Enhance Literary Devices

Visual and Sound Techniques

Literary Device	Technique	Explanation
Symbolism	Color contrast	The shift from sepia-toned Kansas to colorful Oz highlights the symbolic journey.
Imagery	Set design and costumes	The vibrant and imaginative visuals enhance the fantastical elements of Oz.

Literary Device	Technique	Explanation
Irony	Dialogue delivery	The Wizard’s bumbling reveal contrasts with his previous grandiose persona.
Foreshadowing	Musical cues	The music often hints at upcoming events and emotional shifts.

Key Scene Analysis

Scene Selection

Dorothy Meets the Scarecrow

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This scene introduces the Scarecrow and establishes his quest for a brain. The clever use of dialogue and irony highlights the character’s traits and foreshadows his contributions to the journey.

The Wicked Witch’s Threat

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In this scene, the Wicked Witch threatens Dorothy and her friends, showcasing the themes of good vs. evil. The visual contrast between the witch’s dark appearance and the bright surroundings emphasizes this conflict.

Dorothy’s Return to Kansas

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Dorothy’s heartfelt goodbye to her friends in Oz and her subsequent return to Kansas is a poignant moment that underscores the theme of home and belonging. The use of symbolism and motif in this scene reinforces the film’s central message.

Scene Breakdowns

Dorothy Meets the Scarecrow
In this scene, Dorothy encounters the Scarecrow, who believes he needs a brain. The dialogue is rich with irony, as the Scarecrow often comes up with clever ideas despite his self-doubt. The scene uses personification, with the Scarecrow exhibiting human-like emotions and behavior, adding depth to his character.

The Wicked Witch’s Threat
This intense scene where the Wicked Witch threatens Dorothy and her friends is crucial in establishing the central conflict. The witch’s menacing tone and dark attire juxtapose with Dorothy’s innocence and bright surroundings. The use of foreshadowing hints at the challenges Dorothy will face.

Dorothy’s Return to Kansas
Dorothy’s return home is filled with emotional weight, underscored by the repeated motif of “There’s no place like home.” The transition from the colorful world of Oz back to the sepia tones of Kansas symbolizes Dorothy’s growth and the fulfillment of her journey.

Conclusion

Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz

Engage with the content and test your understanding of the literary devices used in “The Wizard of Oz” with this fun quiz!

1. What does Dorothy’s journey symbolize?
   • A) Adventure
   • B) Search for identity and belonging
   • C) Fantasy escape
2. Which literary device is used to represent the Wicked Witch of the West?
   • A) Metaphor
   • B) Irony
   • C) Allusion
3. What does the Tin Man’s quest for a heart represent?
   • A) Search for wealth
   • B) Search for emotional fulfillment
   • C) Search for wisdom
4. How is irony demonstrated in the character of the Scarecrow?
   • A) He is scared of everything.
   • B) He believes he lacks a brain but often provides clever solutions.
   • C) He is actually made of straw.
5. What does the Yellow Brick Road symbolize?
   • A) A journey towards a dream.
   • B) A road to nowhere.
   • C) A simple pathway.