The Dispelling Myths: Witches and Oz in Literature and Film

In the beloved story of The Wizard of Oz, multiple Witches play vital roles in the narrative. While the events of the film are widely known, the books provide a somewhat different twist. Let's delve into a detailed exploration of these witches, their fates, and the discrepancies between what we see on screen and in the literary work.

Understanding the Witches in Oz

The realm of Oz is rich with enchanting characters, including witches, who embody various moral lessons and obstacles for Dorothy and her companions. The Wicked Witch of the West, Wicked Witch of the East, Good Witch of the North, and Good Witch of the South form the central magical entities of this fantastical land. However, the film only presents a subset of these characters, omitting the Good Witch of the North and the Good Witch of the South. This is a crucial aspect to explore as it shapes the narrative and moral teachings of the story.

The Fate of the Wicked Witches

Wicked Witch of the West

One of the most iconic witches in the story, the Wicked Witch of the West, a red-headed enchantress, is famously killed when Dorothy, with a bucket of water, melts her. This scene is iconic and well-known, but it's worth noting that this detail is not present in the original novel. In The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum, the Witch is killed by Dorothy's unplanned house falling from the sky. This significant detail originates from the 1939 film adaptation, which has shaped not only the popular understanding of the story but also the subsequent interpretations and retellings. Even in the 2019 live-action film, the Witch of the West is melted, returning to the iconic version that captivates audiences. This discrepancy highlights how visual storytelling can significantly influence our perception of literary works.

Wicked Witch of the East

Interestingly, the Wicked Witch of the East meets a more tragic end. Instead of being slain by Dorothy or the other characters, she is killed when the house falls upon her. This event is reminiscent of a classic folktale motif, where the antagonist is often defeated by an accidental grave injustice. The Wicked Witch of the East's demise is a poignant reminder of the potential consequences of one's actions, even if they are unintentional.

The Missing Good Witches

Good Witch of the North

The Good Witch of the North holds a significant role in the original novel. When Dorothy first arrives in Oz, it is the Good Witch of the North who welcomes her and provides guidance for her journey. Her absence in the film version is a notable omission. The Good Witch of the North offers warm hospitality, advising Dorothy to travel westward and kill the Wicked Witch of the West. This scene is crucial as it sets the stage for the primary conflict of the story. The Good Witch of the North also salutes Dorothy upon her safe return, a gesture that underscores her role as a protector and mentor. Despite her absence in the film, the Good Witch of the North remains an integral character in the literary work, symbolizing hope, guidance, and protection.

Good Witch of the South

The Good Witch of the South is another notable presence in the novel. Unlike the other witches, the Good Witch of the South is mentioned but never explicitly seen in the film. In the original story, she is known for her kind and benevolent nature. The Good Witch of the South appears to Dorothy in a dream at one point, offering her a final piece of advice and assurance of her safe return home. This character is crucial as she serves as a reminder of the kindness and support Dorothy has received throughout her journey. Despite the film's focus on specific events, the Good Witch of the South's presence in the novel underscores the importance of guidance and support in Dorothy's journey.

Conclusion and Reflection

The discrepancies between the film and the books offer a valuable opportunity for reflection on storytelling and the adaptation process. While the film captures the iconic moments and characters, it simplifies and condenses the narrative to create a more engaging and immediate experience. The books, however, provide a deeper and more nuanced exploration of the characters and their roles. Understanding these differences can help us appreciate the complexity of the original work and the lasting impact it has on popular culture. Whether through vivid characters like the Wicked Witch of the West, the Wicked Witch of the East, the Good Witch of the North, or the Good Witch of the South, the tale of Oz remains a timeless and thought-provoking story for readers and viewers alike.