Myths about The Wizard of Oz are common among fans of the movie. These myths have a range of topics, such as what characters meant and how they impacted American mythology. They also touch on the movie’s relevance to feminist theory. But which ones are true?
Common myths
There are several common myths about The Wizard of Oz. The first is that Judy Garland was 15 years old when the filming began. However, she was actually sixteen years old when the movie was released. This is because the make-up and wig that she wore was not a real one. Also, she had to wear a corset to make her look young and flat.
Another common myth about The Wizard of Oz is that Jack Haley did not play the role of the Tin Man. The role was originally played by Buddy Esben, but he died during filming. Those who believe this myth believe that a dark shadow is moving in the background of the film – a shadow that belongs to an actor who committed suicide on set.
Meaning of characters
The Wizard of Oz myths are full of powerful archetypes. The Good Witch is a great example of this. She embodies the archetype of the mother, while the Scarecrow represents the archetype of the trickster. In the book, Dorothy is introduced to the world of archetypes when she receives ruby slippers from the Good Witch, who instructs her to follow the Yellow Brick Road.
The Wizard was intended by Baum to be a metaphor for self-proclaimed gurus and spiritual healers. He was also meant to be a metaphor for society at large. Baum’s story is full of hidden messages.
Influence on American mythology
The Influence of the Wizard of Oz on American Mythology is a multi-faceted topic. The story of the Wonderful Wizard of Oz is not just a tale of a magical land, but it is also about human dilemmas and the healing journey of the yellow brick road. Baum’s story was a product of his time, which was full of unrest about the treatment of humankind and the environment.
While the story is often associated with children’s fantasy stories, the tale is complex and reflects many tensions in American society. In the current political climate, it is important to recognize how the stories of Oz reflect and express the tensions in our society.
Relevance to feminist theory
The feminist theory of the wizard of Oz myths focuses on how the stories depict women. The story of Dorothy and her journey through Oz has often been used to discuss feminism. While Baum was a man, the story is a female-centric fantasy. This story emphasizes the idea of empowerment and gender equality.
The story revolves around the female protagonist, Dorothy. Dorothy, the good witch, is the hero of the story. She protects the other characters, including the male characters, and helps them. She also protects herself by helping the male characters. Ultimately, Dorothy and her companions are successful in saving everyone, even the wicked witch. The story also reveals that the “great and powerful Oz” is only a fake.
Origins
The origins of the Wizard of Oz story are not entirely clear. Baum and his wife, Maud, were living in Macatawa, part-time, and sometimes travelled to Bloomington, Ill. When Baum and his wife were in Bloomington, they met Dorothy Gage, a young girl. Dorothy’s mother, Maud, and brother, Thomas, yearned for a daughter, so they went to Bloomington to meet her.
In the 1890s, L. Frank Baum had just published a book titled “Father Goose.” The book, written with the help of illustrator W.W. Denslow, became a bestseller, and the Baum family became rich. In the following years, they toured the world, and they were able to see the land of Oz and its inhabitants.