How does “The Wizard of Oz” follow the hero’s journey? L. Frank Baum’s classic novel, first published in 1900, is a prime example of the hero’s journey, a narrative structure that has been studied and analyzed by writers and critics for centuries. This journey, also known as the monomyth, was first outlined by Joseph Campbell in his influential work “The Hero with a Thousand Faces.” By examining the key stages of the hero’s journey in “The Wizard of Oz,” we can see how the story follows this timeless narrative structure, making it a beloved classic for generations to come.
The hero’s journey typically begins with the hero’s ordinary world. In “The Wizard of Oz,” this is represented by Dorothy’s life in Kansas. She is a young girl living with her Auntie Em and Uncle Henry on their farm, far from the excitement and adventures of the outside world. This ordinary world is disrupted when a cyclone sweeps Dorothy away to the magical land of Oz.
The next stage of the hero’s journey is the call to adventure. For Dorothy, this call comes in the form of the cyclone. She is initially reluctant to leave her home, but the circumstances force her to embark on a journey. This call to adventure is a critical moment in the story, as it marks the beginning of Dorothy’s transformation into a hero.
Once Dorothy leaves her ordinary world, she enters the special world of Oz. This world is filled with fantastical creatures, such as the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion. These characters represent the hero’s allies, who will help Dorothy on her journey. The special world is often characterized by its unfamiliarity and the presence of magical elements, which is certainly true for the land of Oz.
The next stage of the hero’s journey is the tests, allies, and enemies. Dorothy faces numerous challenges and obstacles as she travels through the magical land of Oz. She must navigate the dangerous paths, avoid the Wicked Witch of the West, and overcome her own fears and insecurities. Along the way, she encounters her allies, the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion, who provide support and guidance. Each character has their own unique qualities and vulnerabilities, which contribute to the story’s richness and depth.
The hero’s journey also includes the moment of transformation, where the hero faces their greatest challenge. In “The Wizard of Oz,” this moment comes when Dorothy must confront the Wicked Witch of the West. The witch represents the hero’s greatest fear and the ultimate obstacle she must overcome. After a series of trials and tribulations, Dorothy is able to defeat the witch, which leads to her transformation into a hero.
The final stage of the hero’s journey is the return home. Dorothy, along with her allies, must return to Kansas. However, she is no longer the same girl who left her home. She has grown and changed, and she has gained the confidence and courage to face life’s challenges. The return home is often marked by a celebration, as the hero is welcomed back as a hero.
In conclusion, “The Wizard of Oz” follows the hero’s journey in a compelling and engaging manner. From Dorothy’s ordinary world to her transformation into a hero, the story captures the essence of the hero’s journey, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences today. By analyzing the story through the lens of the hero’s journey, we can appreciate the intricate details and themes that contribute to its enduring popularity.
