I had the absolute privilege (and, dare I say, “no one mourns the privileged”?) of catching a sneak preview of Wicked days before it officially opened. You can find my review here—it was like getting an Emerald City all-access pass without the broomstick.
As my wife and I exited the theater on a cloud of musical euphoria and overpriced popcorn, I overheard a conversation that Gregory Maguire himself could have written. Two women were deep in discussion about the film’s social and political messaging. One boldly stated, “You know, the original Wizard of Oz was also political.” The other paused, a little like Dorothy-lost-in-Munchkinland, and replied, “Really? How so?”
At that moment, my inner history nerd wanted to swoop in like Glinda’s bubble and sprinkle a quick lesson on monetary policy, the gold standard, social equality, and turn-of-the-century populism. But honestly? The mental image of these women skipping down the metaphorical yellow brick road of their conversation was too delightful to interrupt. Sometimes, life gives you a conversation that is so pure that it feels like a gift from Oz itself. 🌟
So before we dive into the politics of The Wizard of Oz, let’s address the inevitable counterargument: “But movies used to be just for fun! They didn’t shove politics down our throats!” To which I say in my best Chandler Bing voice, have you seen The Wizard of Oz? The classic 1939 film is one of the most beloved pieces of American cinema, but it’s also chock-full of political allegory and social commentary. From economic strife to populist ideals, this Technicolor gem has been dissected by scholars and armchair analysts for decades—and it was “woke” long before the term existed.
Let’s explore the politics behind Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers and Yellow Brick Road.
The Allegory for Economic and Political Struggles
L. Frank Baum’s original novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, has long been interpreted as a parable about the political and economic climate of the late 19th century. Though the 1939 film version dialed down some more explicit allegories, the themes remained.
- The Scarecrow (the farmers): Representing the plight of the American farmer, the Scarecrow is initially portrayed as lacking a brain but ultimately proves to be wise and resourceful. It’s a sharp commentary on how industrial elites viewed rural workers—disparaging them as uneducated while benefiting from their labor.
- The Tin Man (the industrial worker): Rusted and immobile, the Tin Man is a poignant metaphor for industrial workers dehumanized and exploited by rapid industrialization. He’s heartless, not because he’s cold, but because the system drained him of his humanity.
- The Cowardly Lion (populist politicians): Many see the Lion as a stand-in for William Jennings Bryan, the populist leader who was bold in rhetoric but ultimately unsuccessful in rallying real change. The Lion seeks courage, perhaps a jab at leaders whose conviction falters under pressure.
- The Yellow Brick Road and Emerald City (false promises): The shimmering road represents the gold standard, while the Emerald City is the illusion of prosperity. Together, they critique the era’s economic policies, suggesting that following them would lead to disappointment.
- Dorothy (the everyperson): Dorothy embodies the ordinary citizen—kind, resourceful, and underestimated. Her journey is about reclaiming agency and discovering that the power to create change was within her all along.
Themes of Social Equality and Collective Action
While the political allegory is often tied to Baum’s Populist roots, the film version of The Wizard of Oz also carries strong messages about social equality and the power of collective action. Dorothy doesn’t save the day alone—she achieves her goals through teamwork and helping others embrace their strengths.
Even the Wicked Witch of the West, a villain, can be read through a political lens. Her strong, commanding presence is portrayed as threatening, highlighting a fear of women who step outside traditional roles. Meanwhile, Glinda, the Good Witch, represents a more gentle and socially accepted form of femininity. This contrast reflects the way female strength has often been misunderstood or seen as dangerous, showcasing a struggle to embrace women who challenge expectations. Her downfall comes not because she is inherently evil but because Dorothy asserts her own agency. It’s a feminist-friendly message wrapped in glitter and melodrama.
Escaping to Oz: A Commentary on Escapism
It’s impossible to separate The Wizard of Oz from its historical context: the Great Depression and the looming specter of World War II. The movie’s escapism wasn’t just a fun fantasy but a political balm. It offered audiences hope, where ordinary people could overcome systemic oppression and tyranny (symbolized by the Wicked Witch) through unity and self-belief.
And let’s not forget the famous final reveal: The “great and powerful” Oz is just a man behind a curtain, puffing himself up with smoke and mirrors. It’s a scathing indictment of leaders who rely on fear and manipulation rather than genuine strength. Looking at you, Donald Trump.
The Myth of Non-Political Art
Here’s the kicker: Even a seemingly innocent movie like The Wizard of Oz was swimming in politics. It reflected its era’s anxieties about inequality, industrialization, and systemic failure while sneaking in timeless themes about power, oppression, and courage. And audiences didn’t just accept it—they embraced it. The film’s political undercurrents didn’t detract from its magic; they made it resonate across generations.
So the next time someone complains that modern movies are “too political,” remind them that The Wizard of Oz—one of the most beloved films in history—was dripping with politics. Far from breaking it, those themes are part of what made it unforgettable.
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