Symbols and Themes
These shoes symbolize power and protection.
What are the ruby slippers?
Dorothy’s main goal throughout the film is to do this.
What is return home?
This natural disaster transports Dorothy from Kansas to Oz.
What is a tornado?
Kansas is shown using this color style.
What is sepia tone?
This character believes he lacks a brain.
Who is the Scarecrow?
The Emerald City primarily represents this concept.
What is illusion or false promise?
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” expresses dissatisfaction with these.
What are limitations?
This type of narrative structure begins and ends in Kansas.
What is a circular structure?
Oz is presented in bright color to emphasize this element.
What is fantasy or imagination?
This character fears emotional vulnerability, symbolized by rusting.
Who is the Tin Man?
The Witch’s hourglass is a symbolic countdown that builds this.
What is suspense?
The Wizard’s reveal critiques blind trust in this.
What is authority?
Dorothy’s imprisonment increases tension mainly because this is running out.
What is time?
Low-key lighting and shadows help create this mood for the Wicked Witch.
What is menace or suspense?
This character’s arc shows that courage is learned through experience.
Who is the Cowardly Lion?
The Scarecrow’s intelligence before receiving a brain suggests this limitation.
What is self-perception?
The film suggests that ordinary people possess this.
What is unrecognized power?
This moment most clearly foreshadows that the Wizard is not what he appears to be.
What is his use of machines and smoke?
Music in the film most often serves to reveal this aspect of characters.
What are internal desires or emotions?
This antagonist’s obsession with the ruby slippers symbolizes a desire for control.
Who is the Wicked Witch of the West?
The Wizard’s symbolic gifts reinforce the idea that these already exist within the characters.
What are inner qualities?
Dorothy’s final realization emphasizes fulfillment through this.
What is self-awareness and connection?
The journey down the Yellow Brick Road represents this kind of personal process.
What is personal growth or self-discovery?
The Wizard’s booming voice and giant image suggest this illusion.
What is supernatural authority?
This idea is reinforced by the line “There’s no place like home.”
What is the value of belonging and self-acceptance?