The Portrayal of Gender Roles in The Wizard of Oz (1939): A Critique of Dorothy’s Role as a Female Protagonist in a Male-Dominated Adventure
Dorothy’s role in The Wizard of Oz provides an interesting exploration of gender roles, especially in the context of a male-dominated adventure genre. As a young female protagonist, Dorothy subverts traditional gender norms by embarking on an adventure of her own and demonstrating courage, intelligence, and leadership throughout the film.
Unlike typical female characters of the time, who were often relegated to passive or secondary roles, Dorothy is an active and determined character. She drives the plot forward and plays a crucial role in the resolution of the conflict. While some critics argue that her journey is motivated by a desire to return home, Dorothy’s growth throughout the film reflects the changing role of women in society, particularly during the 1930s.
The film also highlights how Dorothy’s emotional and intellectual journey leads her to realize that she possesses the power to change her own circumstances. This theme of self-reliance and agency, portrayed through a female character, was revolutionary for its time and remains relevant in contemporary discussions about female empowerment in cinema.
8. The Theme of Good vs. Evil in The Wizard of Oz (1939): A Study of the Portrayal of Moral Values and the Characters’ Journey Toward Personal Growth
The theme of good versus evil is central to the narrative of The Wizard of Oz, with the Wicked Witch of the West symbolizing evil and Dorothy, along with her companions, representing good. This battle is not just a physical one but also a moral one, as the characters undergo personal growth and transformation throughout the film.
The Wicked Witch embodies cruelty and tyranny, and her relentless pursuit of Dorothy’s ruby slippers represents the forces of oppression and control. In contrast, Dorothy’s purity, kindness, and determination represent the virtues of goodness, loyalty, and perseverance. The film shows that goodness ultimately triumphs, not through brute force but through personal growth, courage, and empathy.
By the end of the story, each of the main characters—Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion—overcome their perceived flaws and find the qualities they were seeking all along. This resolution emphasizes that personal growth and moral integrity are more powerful than external conflicts, aligning the theme of good versus evil with the characters' internal transformations.