As a seasoned gamer and avid reader of fantasy novels who has lost countless hours to both virtual and physical realms, I find myself captivated by the intricate tapestry that is Wicked. The story serves not only as an enticing prequel but also as a thought-provoking sequel to the classic tale of Oz, weaving together the familiar faces and settings in a way that breathes new life into the original narrative.
Ever wondered if “Wicked” is set before “The Wizard of Oz” and what its timeline looks like from a fan’s point of view? These two stories have similar characters and settings, but “Wicked” delves deeper into the backstory of Glinda and Elphaba, offering insights into their lives well before Dorothy ever stepped foot in Oz. It provides a fresh, thought-provoking perspective that redefines the original tale by presenting a different narrative.
Here’s an explanation of the connections between Wicked and The Wizard of Oz, the main incidents it explores, and why classifying it as a prequel isn’t completely clear-cut.
Is Wicked a prequel or a sequel to Wizard of Oz?
The answer is both yes and no.
In “Wicked,” we delve into the history of significant characters from “The Wizard of Oz,” focusing particularly on Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch. But unlike a typical prequel, it goes further, providing a fresh take on the Oz tale that encompasses happenings simultaneous to and following Dorothy’s adventure as well.
To grasp the connection between Wicked and The Wizard of Oz, it’s crucial to recognize that Wicked isn’t a literal adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s 1900 book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” or its 1939 film version. Rather, it derives its story from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West.” This novel offers a fresh perspective, depicting Elphaba not merely as a wicked character but as a multidimensional, misjudged figure entangled in the political and societal complexities of Oz.
In the opening act of “Wicked,” the story is set before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz. This initial segment delves into Elphaba’s upbringing, her years at Shiz University, and her bond with Glinda. As the narrative progresses, Elphaba starts to uncover the deceitful practices of the Wizard and Madame Morrible that rule over Oz. The tale ends with Elphaba fleeing, disenchanted by the Wizard’s oppressive regime. The second half of the story coincides with Dorothy’s adventures, providing a fresh take on events through Elphaba and Glinda’s eyes. The play ultimately reveals that Elphaba’s “wickedness” is merely a label imposed upon her by those around her.
In essence, “Wicked” serves as a prologue to certain events in “The Wizard of Oz,” but it also broadens the storyline. By offering a different perspective, it delves into topics like morality, power, and friendship. As a result, “Wicked” is more than just a prequel or sequel; it’s a fresh reinterpretation of the original tale.
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2024-12-03 15:40