## "Wicked" - Summary
What if the Wicked Witch of the West wasn't really wicked, but just...misunderstood? Gregory Maguire's "Wicked" turns the classic Oz story on its head, exploring the life of Elphaba, the girl destined to become the infamous witch. From her difficult childhood to her tumultuous time at university and eventual confrontation with Dorothy, "Wicked" paints a complex and sympathetic portrait of a woman ostracized for her green skin and rebellious spirit.
### Three Key Themes:
**1. The Nature of Good and Evil:** "Wicked" challenges the simplistic binaries of good and evil presented in the original "Wizard of Oz." Elphaba, though labeled "wicked," is shown to be deeply compassionate, fighting for the rights of animals and opposing the corrupt Wizard's regime. Conversely, characters traditionally seen as "good," like Glinda the Good Witch, are revealed to be more concerned with appearances and social standing. The novel compels readers to question pre-conceived notions and consider the gray areas of morality.
**2. The Power of Fear and Othering:** Elphaba's emerald-green skin makes her an outcast from birth. This theme of "othering" is central to the novel, as Elphaba faces prejudice and discrimination throughout her life. This fear of the different fuels the Wizard's rise to power, as he manipulates public opinion to ostracize and demonize those who don't conform, including Animals and anyone who questions his authority.
**3. The Search for Identity and Belonging:** Elphaba's journey is one of self-discovery. Throughout the novel, she grapples with her identity as a green-skinned woman in a world that shuns her. She struggles to find a place where she truly belongs, facing betrayal and heartbreak along the way. Her journey resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, searching for acceptance and understanding.
### FAQs:
**1. Is "Wicked" appropriate for children?**
While inspired by "The Wizard of Oz," "Wicked" is a more complex and mature story that deals with darker themes like prejudice, political corruption, and social injustice. It's generally recommended for older teenagers and adults.
**2. How does the book differ from the musical?**
While the musical draws inspiration from the book, it takes some creative liberties. The plot points are generally the same, but the musical focuses more on the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda. The book delves deeper into the political and social commentary, exploring Elphaba's motivations and the complexities of Oz in more detail.
**3. Is it necessary to read "The Wizard of Oz" before reading "Wicked"?**
No, it's not essential. While familiarity with the original story can enrich the reading experience, "Wicked" stands on its own as a complete and independent narrative.
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