The Wizard of OZ Characters

Wizard of Oz Characters

The Wizard of OZ Characters - The concept of wizards can be traced back to ancient civilizations where medicine men and priests were believed to have supernatural powers that allowed them to talk with their god, forecast the future, and heal the sick. These figures were respected and feared, considered to be the link between the earthly world and the spiritual world.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was written by L. Frank Baum

This 1900 children’s novel is a beloved classic, filled with whimsical characters and magical adventures.

These characters look to the wizard as a magical being with powers to transport people. They think he can provide guidance and teach them to control the powers needed to face impending challenges. This is seen as a key element in the personal growth of the heros.

The Wizard of Oz Characters List

The Wizard of Oz

The object of Dorothy and her companions’ quest. The Wizard is a seemingly powerful man who lives in the Emerald City. However, he proves to be a fraud who cannot really help Dorothy or her friends.

Dorothy

A young girl from Kansas and the protagonist of the novel. Dorothy is brave, kind, and determined to return home after she is uprooted from it. Despite being the protagonist of the novel, Dorothy does not change much throughout her adventures. 

"I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore. We must be over the rainbow!” 

Scarecrow

A magical scarecrow from Oz. The Scarecrow is one of Dorothy’s companions on her quest, and he is loyal to Dorothy and helps her while working toward his own goal of getting a brain. Cheerful and easy-going, the Scarecrow has more intelligence than he realizes. He eventually becomes ruler of the Emerald City when the Wizard leaves in his balloon.

The Wizard of Oz

Tin Man

A once-human Woodman whose body has been completely replaced by tin. One of Dorothy’s companions on her quest, the Tin Woodman hopes to receive a new heart from the Wizard of Oz, although he shows himself to be kind and concerned for others already. The Tin Woodman eventually becomes ruler of the Winkies.

The Cowardly Lion

A fierce-seeming lion who is actually frightened of conflict. One of Dorothy’s companions on her quest, the Lion hopes that the Wizard will give him courage, although he repeatedly shows instances of bravery to help his companions. The Lion eventually becomes ruler over the beasts of the southern forest.

The Wicked Witch of the West

An evil witch and one of the main antagonists of the story. The Wicked Witch has enslaved the Winkies and takes Dorothy and the Lion as prisoners after having the flying monkeys incapacitate the Tin Woodman and the Scarecrow. Dorothy and her companions are sent by the Wizard of Oz to kill her. The Wicked Witch severely underestimates Dorothy’s courage and power and pays for it with her life.

Glinda

The Good Witch of the South who lives in the country of the Quadlings. She tells Dorothy about the power of the Silver Shoes to take her home. Unlike the other supposedly powerful characters in Oz, Glinda is wise and has compassion for Dorothy.

Toto

A small black dog that helped keep Dorothy cheerful in Kansas, and one of her companions on her quest. Toto and Dorothy are very protective of one another. He returns with Dorothy to Kansas at the end of the novel.

The Flying Monkeys

A group of mischievous monkeys who must perform three acts for the owner of the Golden Cap. Although first under the power of the Wicked Witch of the West, they are not actually evil. They later help Dorothy and her companions. 

Aunt Em

A farmer’s wife and Dorothy’s aunt. Although worn down by the grayness of the Kansas prairie, she loves and cares for Dorothy. Returning to her is one of Dorothy’s main desires in her travels in the land of Oz.

Quote from Cabbie to Dorthy

"That, my dear, is a 'horse of a different color"

In medieval Europe, the image of the wizard took on characteristics common in today’s portrayals. Figures such as Merlin from Arthurian legend exemplify this shift. Merlin’s role as a counselor to King Arthur and his mystical powers made him one of the most famous wizards in Western literature.

In the modern era, the figure of the wizard has become a staple of fantasy literature and movies. From Gandalf in J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Lord of the Rings" to Dumbledore in J.K. Rowling’s "Harry Potter" series, wizards continue to captivate audiences with their wisdom and powers.

Wizards hold a prominent place in popular culture, captivating audiences with their magic. Their portrayal can range from the wise to the dark and complex.

To sum up "The Wizard of Oz Characters"

Wizards, with their wisdom and powers, continue to be a an important part of fantasy and folklore. Their use of wisdom and guidance not only entertains us, but also teach us about life and the importance of using knowledge wisely.