The Witch Observes from Afar

High above the land of Oz, the Witch, Elphaba, observes Dorothy and her companions on the Yellow Brick Road. Misunderstood and feared, she listens to their conversations, filled with rumors about her. The shoes Dorothy wears, once belonging to Elphaba's sister, captivate her, symbolizing power and a connection to her past. Despite the brewing storm, Elphaba waits patiently, knowing her time will come to reclaim what she believes is rightfully hers.

Birth of a Green Child

In Munchkinland, Melena gives birth to Elphaba, a green-skinned baby girl. Her father, Frex, a devout minister, is troubled by her appearance, seeing it as a curse. The midwives consider killing the child, but Elphaba survives, displaying a fierce will to live. Melena, overwhelmed by her husband's absence, struggles to bond with her daughter. Elphaba's unusual color marks her for a life of challenges and prejudice, setting the stage for her future struggles.

Elphaba's Unusual Childhood

Growing up, Elphaba faces suspicion and fear due to her green skin. Her father, often absent, leaves her in the care of her mother and Nanny. Living among the marginalized Quadlings, Elphaba learns to navigate a world that sees her as an outsider. Her intelligence and resilience become apparent, but she remains isolated, unable to connect with those around her. Her difference shapes her identity and future, fueling her desire for acceptance and justice.

Arrival at Shiz University

At Shiz University, Elphaba is paired with Glinda, a privileged girl. Their unlikely friendship evolves as they navigate university life, filled with political tensions and social hierarchies. Elphaba's intelligence and determination stand out, challenging the status quo. She begins to find her voice and purpose, setting her on a path of self-discovery and defiance against a world that seeks to marginalize her.

The Mysterious Doctor Dillamond

Elphaba becomes involved with Doctor Dillamond, a Goat professor researching the equality of Animals and humans. His work is controversial, attracting the Wizard's regime's attention. Elphaba assists him, drawn to his passion for change. Their collaboration is pivotal, as Elphaba begins to understand the power of knowledge and the importance of fighting for justice. Dillamond's influence ignites her resolve to challenge the oppressive regime.

A Tragic Discovery

The peace at Shiz is shattered when Doctor Dillamond is found dead, his throat slit. The official story is an accident, but Elphaba and her friends know the truth. The murder is a warning from those in power to silence dissent. Devastated, Elphaba resolves to continue Dillamond's work, determined to uncover the truth and challenge the regime. The tragedy marks a turning point, setting her on a path of resistance and rebellion.

Secrets and Shadows at Shiz

Determined to uncover the truth behind Dillamond's murder, Elphaba acts alone, fearing for her friends' safety. Her resolve highlights her growing isolation and determination to fight against the oppressive regime. An unexpected event during a lecture diverts attention, but Elphaba's mission remains clear. Her journey at Shiz is marked by secrecy and the burden of knowledge, as she navigates the complexities of a corrupt society.

The Enigma of Doctor Nikidik

During a lecture by Doctor Nikidik, a demonstration goes awry, leading to chaos. A new student, Fiyero, disrupts the air currents, causing animated antlers to attack him. The incident raises questions about science and sorcery, foreshadowing the blending of magic and science central to Elphaba's journey. The chaos leaves Elphaba and her friends bewildered, highlighting the unpredictable nature of their world.

The Vinkus Student's Arrival

Fiyero, a prince from the Vinkus, arrives at Shiz, drawing attention with his tribal markings and mysterious demeanor. His presence intrigues Elphaba and her friends, sparking discussions about cultural differences and civilization. Fiyero becomes a significant figure in Elphaba's life, challenging her perceptions and influencing her path. His unique perspective adds depth to the social dynamics at Shiz, marking a turning point in Elphaba's journey.

Glinda's Moral Dilemma

Influenced by her sorcery teacher, Glinda questions the ethical implications of magic. She struggles with using sorcery to change the world, fearing corruption. Her internal conflict reflects broader themes of power and responsibility, as she navigates her privileged position and growing awareness of injustices. Glinda's journey of self-discovery and moral questioning parallels Elphaba's struggles, highlighting the complexities of their world.

The Binding Spell's Revelation

After Ama Clutch's death, Madame Morrible reveals her plan to recruit Elphaba, Glinda, and Nessarose as agents for the Wizard. She binds them with a spell, preventing them from discussing her proposal. The revelation of Morrible's manipulation highlights the pervasive control of the Wizard's regime. This moment marks a turning point for Elphaba, as she realizes the extent of the corruption she must fight against.

Elphaba's Departure from Shiz

Determined to challenge the Wizard's oppressive rule, Elphaba decides to leave Shiz and travel to the Emerald City. She bids farewell to Glinda, urging her to resist the regime. Elphaba's departure signifies her commitment to justice and willingness to sacrifice personal connections for the greater good. Her journey to the Emerald City sets the stage for her transformation into the iconic Wicked Witch of the West.

The Witch's Final Stand

In Kiamo Ko, Elphaba grapples with her past and present. Haunted by her sister Nessarose's loss and Dorothy's looming threat, she reflects on her life, failures, and redemption possibilities. Her isolation is punctuated by interactions with Liir, a boy she cares for but cannot fully claim. As she prepares for the confrontation with Dorothy, Elphaba contemplates her legacy and the choices that have defined her.

Dorothy's Unwanted Mission

Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas, is tasked with a mission to kill the Wicked Witch of the West. Accompanied by her friends, she navigates the path to Kiamo Ko, driven by the hope of returning home. Despite her reluctance, Dorothy is determined to complete her mission, unaware of the true nature of the conflict. Her journey is marked by a desire for justice and compassion, as she seeks to understand the complexities of her task.

The Witch's Last Confrontation

When Dorothy arrives at Kiamo Ko, the Witch is prepared for a battle of wills. Elphaba confronts Dorothy, demanding to know her intentions. Overwhelmed and frightened, Dorothy insists she never meant harm. The Witch, torn between vengeance and understanding, struggles to reconcile her feelings. The confrontation forces both women to confront their fears and misconceptions, leading to an unexpected and tragic resolution.

Characters

Elphaba

Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, is driven by a desire for justice and understanding. Her green skin marks her as an outsider, shaping her identity and struggles. Throughout her life, she grapples with isolation and a longing for acceptance. Her interactions with Dorothy reveal a softer side, as she contemplates forgiveness and redemption. Elphaba's journey is one of self-discovery, confronting the demons of her past and the choices that have defined her.

Dorothy

Dorothy is a young girl from Kansas, thrust into the world of Oz. Her journey is marked by a desire to return home, driven by justice and compassion. Despite her fear, Dorothy is determined to complete her mission, questioning the morality of her task. Her interactions with the Witch reveal her inner strength and empathy, as she seeks to understand the complexities of the world around her.

Glinda

Glinda's character development is central, as she grapples with the ethical implications of sorcery and her privileged position. Her relationship with Elphaba challenges her to question her values and grow beyond her superficial beginnings. Glinda's internal conflict and gradual transformation highlight themes of power, responsibility, and the struggle for justice.

Fiyero

Fiyero's arrival at Shiz brings a fresh perspective, challenging the status quo. His tribal background and unique outlook intrigue Elphaba and her friends, sparking discussions about cultural differences and civilization. Fiyero becomes a catalyst for change, influencing Elphaba's journey and adding depth to the social dynamics at Shiz.

Frex

Frex is Elphaba's father, a unionist minister who struggles with her unusual appearance. His religious convictions lead him to see Elphaba's greenness as a curse. Often absent, he leaves the family in the care of Melena and Nanny. Frex's internal conflict and inability to accept Elphaba contribute to her feelings of isolation and difference, representing the tension between faith and acceptance.

Melena

Melena is Elphaba's mother, struggling to bond with her green-skinned daughter. Overwhelmed by her husband's absence and the challenges of raising a unique child, she turns to alcohol and escapism. Melena's inability to connect with Elphaba adds to the child's sense of isolation, highlighting the difficulties of motherhood and societal expectations.

Doctor Dillamond

Doctor Dillamond is a Goat professor at Shiz, dedicated to researching the equality of Animals and humans. His work is controversial, attracting the Wizard's regime's attention. Dillamond's murder is a turning point for Elphaba, igniting her passion for justice and resistance. His character represents the struggle for truth and equality in a world of oppression.

Nessarose

Nessarose is Elphaba's younger sister, born without arms. Despite her physical limitations, she is beautiful and strong-willed. Raised with religious fervor, Nessarose is devout and often at odds with Elphaba's atheism. Her presence at Shiz adds complexity to Elphaba's life, exploring themes of beauty, disability, and faith.

Liir

Liir is a young boy living with the Witch at Kiamo Ko. Caught between loyalty to Elphaba and a desire for belonging, he struggles with his identity and parentage. His relationship with Dorothy and the Witch is central to his development, as he seeks to understand his place in the world and the nature of his power.

The Wizard

The Wizard of Oz is a powerful figure manipulating events from behind the scenes. His motivations are shrouded in mystery, as he seeks to maintain control over Oz. The Wizard's interactions with Dorothy and the Witch reveal his cunning and willingness to use others to achieve his goals. Despite his authority, the Wizard is ultimately a flawed and vulnerable character, driven by fear and ambition.

Madame Morrible

Madame Morrible is a former headmistress at Shiz, known for her manipulative and controlling nature. Her influence extends beyond the university, shaping Oz's future through her students. Morrible's actions have far-reaching consequences, playing a key role in the events leading to the Witch's downfall. Her character represents the dangers of unchecked power and manipulation's impact on young minds.

Plot Devices

The Yellow Brick Road

The Yellow Brick Road represents the journey and path to power. For the Witch, it is a reminder of her sister's death and the shoes symbolizing her lost power. The road connects characters and their destinies, leading to the Emerald City and Oz's political struggles. It serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama and the Witch's quest for vengeance and justice.

The Shoes

The shoes, originally belonging to Nessarose, are a powerful symbol throughout the story. They represent the Witch's connection to her past and her desire for power. Dorothy's possession of the shoes creates tension, as the Witch sees them as rightfully hers. The shoes are a catalyst for the Witch's actions, driving her to confront Dorothy and reclaim what she believes is her inheritance.

The Clock of the Time Dragon

The Clock of the Time Dragon is a mysterious and prophetic device that plays a significant role in the story. It foretells events and influences characters' actions, particularly in the Witch's past. The clock's presence is a reminder of the forces at play in Oz, both magical and political. It serves as a symbol of fate and the inevitability of certain events, shaping characters' destinies in unexpected ways.

The Binding Spell

The binding spell used by Madame Morrible to control Elphaba, Glinda, and Nessarose symbolizes the Wizard's regime's pervasive influence. The spell's effects highlight themes of power, control, and resistance, as Elphaba and her friends navigate their world's complexities, struggling for autonomy and freedom.

The Grimmerie

The Grimmerie, a magical tome, holds the universe's secrets. Its pages contain spells and knowledge that can alter history's course. The book symbolizes power and temptation, as characters seek to unlock its secrets for their purposes. The Grimmerie's presence highlights themes of knowledge, control, and the consequences of wielding great power.

Analysis

"Wicked" by Gregory Maguire is a profound exploration of power, identity, and the nature of good and evil. Through Elphaba's journey, the novel challenges preconceived notions of wickedness, revealing the complexities of human nature and the impact of societal prejudice. The story delves into themes of isolation, acceptance, and the struggle for justice, as characters navigate a world marked by political intrigue and moral ambiguity. Maguire's reimagining of the land of Oz offers a fresh perspective on familiar characters, inviting readers to question the narratives they have been told. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of empathy and understanding in a divided world. Ultimately, "Wicked" is a story of redemption and the possibility of change, reminding us that the line between good and evil is often blurred.

Last updated: November 6, 2024