The Allegory of Wicked: Rewriting the Story of the Wizard of Oz

All of the following are true about allegories EXCEPT:

• a) They use symbolism to convey deeper meanings about society, politics, or human nature.
• b) They always feature magical or fantastical elements to disguise their true meaning.
• c) They can be found in literature, film, and other forms of storytelling.
• d) They often critique or reflect real-world issues through fictional narratives.

Which of the following is a debated allegorical interpretation of The Wizard of Oz?

• a) It was written to critique Shakespeare’s plays
• b) It represents the rise and fall of Rome
• c) It symbolizes the struggle between rural farmers and banking elites
• d) It is a cautionary tale about technology

How does Wicked alter the original perspective of The Wizard of Oz?

• a) It tells the story from Dorothy’s perspective
• b) It focuses only on the Munchkins and their role in Oz
• c) It reinforces the idea that the Wicked Witch is truly evil
• d) It provides a new perspective, showing that good and evil are more complex

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Which thematic concept in Wicked explores how those in positions over authority can manipulate public perception?

• a) The power of friendship
• b) The importance of home
• c) Magic and destiny
• d) Power and propaganda

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In Wicked, the suppression of sentient Animals serves as a symbol of:

• The struggle between good and evil

• The history of Oz’s monarchy

• Authoritarian suppression and scapegoating of marginalized groups

• The importance of education

Based on Wicked's allegorical meaning, and thematic topics which of the following most likely results in Elphaba being labeled as "wicked"?

• a) Her opposition to the Wizard’s regime and its propaganda
• b) Her refusal to use magic to help others
• c) Her decision to leave Oz and live in exile
• d) Her betrayal of Glinda and the citizens of Oz

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Which of the following allegories mentioned in the article are most thematically similar to Wicked in their exploration of power, oppression, and propaganda?

• a) The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe and The Hunger Games
• b) Harry Potter and The Hunger Games
• c) Harry Potter and Star Wars
• d) Harry Potter, Star Wars, and The Hunger Games

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Gregory Maguire has cited which historical reference as an inspiration for the propaganda elements in Wicked?

• a) The Industrial Revolution
• b) The American Revolution
• c) Nazi Germany
• d) The Cold War

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Which of the following is NOT a valid claim one could write based on the information in the article?

• a) Gregory Maguire uses the silencing of animals in Wicked to critique the practice of suppressing marginalized voices.
• b) The character art of Elphaba in Wicked suggests that villains are always misunderstood heroes in disguise.
• c) Through an allegorical take on facism, Wicked challenges the idea that morality is strictly black and white by presenting complex character motivations.
• d) Wicked serves as an allegory that critiques the use of propaganda and fearmongering in maintaining power.

The text defines allegory by stating that stories like Wicked and Star Wars challenge audiences to think beyond the surface and consider the deeper meanings embedded within their narratives.

Based on this, what is the core function of allegory that the upcoming book, Lord of the Flies, is expected to perform?

• To tell a simple, action-packed adventure story for entertainment

• To convey a simple message, like "there's no place like home"

• To use the characters and symbols to expose and critique real-world issues, such as human nature and civilization.

• To provide a faithful, historical account of a specific political event.

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