Wicked: Symbolism and Themes PDF Free Download
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The movie Wicked (based on the Broadway musical and the novel by Gregory Maguire) employs rich
symbolism to critique authoritarianism, racism, fascism, and elitism. By presenting these themes
through allegory and fantastical elements, the story invites viewers to reflect on real-world social and
political issues. Here's how Wicked addresses these themes symbolically:
1. Authoritarianism
•The Wizard as a Symbol of Tyranny: The Wizard of Oz represents authoritarian power. He
maintains control over Oz through propaganda, lies, and fear. His cheerful public persona hides
his manipulative and oppressive tactics, symbolizing how authoritarian leaders often disguise
their tyranny under the guise of benevolence.
•The "Wicked Witch" Narrative: The demonization of Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the
West) by the Wizard’s regime symbolizes how authoritarian governments target dissenters. By
painting Elphaba as a villain, the Wizard silences opposition and consolidates power, reflecting
the practice of scapegoating in authoritarian regimes.
2. Racism
•Discrimination Against Animals: In Oz, sentient Animals (like Dr. Dillamond) are oppressed
and stripped of their rights, symbolizing systemic racism. Dr. Dillamond’s dismissal from his
teaching position and the stripping of Animals’ ability to speak parallels real-world histories of
segregation and dehumanization of marginalized groups.
•Elphaba’s Green Skin: Elphaba’s green skin symbolizes "otherness" and racial prejudice. She
is ostracized and treated as inherently inferior because of her appearance, echoing the societal
prejudices that have fueled racism throughout history.
3. Fascism
•Surveillance and Control: The Wizard’s regime uses surveillance, secret police, and
propaganda to maintain order, paralleling tactics employed by fascist states. The suppression of
dissent (such as targeting Elphaba and suppressing the truth about Animals) illustrates the
dangers of a state that demands absolute loyalty.
•The Mob Mentality: The citizens of Oz, influenced by propaganda, form a mob against
Elphaba, symbolizing how fascist regimes manipulate the masses into blind conformity and
violent persecution of perceived enemies.
4. Elitism
•Glinda and Privilege: Glinda’s initial behavior and privilege highlight themes of elitism. She is
adored and celebrated because she conforms to societal norms of beauty and status. Her arc—
transforming from superficial and complicit to self-aware and compassionate—critiques the
passive role of the elite in perpetuating inequality.
•Social Hierarchies in Oz: The societal divisions in Oz, with certain groups (like Animals and
those from less privileged regions) being subjugated, reflect the real-world dynamics of
classism and elitism. Elphaba's struggle to rise above her status challenges these hierarchies.
Overarching Symbolism
•Truth and Lies: The Wizard’s reliance on lies and manipulation to maintain power underscores
the fragility of authoritarian and elitist systems. His eventual unmasking symbolizes the
empowerment that comes with exposing truth.
•Defying Gravity: Elphaba’s iconic act of rebellion, epitomized in "Defying Gravity,"
symbolizes breaking free from oppressive systems and daring to challenge societal norms. Her
rise is both literal and metaphorical, representing empowerment in the face of overwhelming
odds.
Conclusion
Wicked uses the fantastical world of Oz as an allegory to explore and critique real-world issues like
authoritarianism, racism, fascism, and elitism. Through its characters, settings, and conflicts, it
encourages audiences to question societal structures,
