Introduction
Elphaba, the iconic character from Gregory Maguire’s novel “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,” presents a complex morality that defies black-and-white categorization. Traditionally viewed as the archetypal villain of L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” Elphaba’s transformation into the Wicked Witch is a nuanced story shaped by experiences of discrimination, betrayal, and moral dilemmas.
The Roots of Elphaba’s Identity
Elphaba Thropp is born with green skin, which sets her apart from others in the land of Oz. This physical difference subjects her to prejudice and alienation from her peers and society as a whole. From a young age, she is met with scorn and disdain, both from her family, including her father who disdains her, and from her community. This ostracism serves as a powerful catalyst for Elphaba’s later choices.
Influence of Relationships
- Fiyero: The love of Elphaba’s life, Fiyero, represents a potential escape from her loneliness. However, after his betrayal, Elphaba’s faith in love and friendship diminishes, leading her further down a path of bitterness.
- Nessarose: Elphaba’s sister, who becomes the Wicked Witch of the East, further complicates Elphaba’s feelings towards family and loyalty, making her more resentful and isolated.
- Madame Morrible: As a teacher, Madame Morrible is supposed to guide Elphaba, but instead, she manipulates her and uses her talents for her own nefarious purposes.
Prejudice and Societal Discrimination
The rampant discrimination and prejudice against Elphaba are vital to understanding her character arc. Growing up as an outcast, she is constantly reminded of her otherness. Studies have shown that individuals who experience consistent prejudice often develop feelings of anger or resentment towards society. Elphaba’s experiences highlight how discrimination can warp one’s perspective, making them feel justified in their radical views and actions.
Moral Dilemmas and Choices
Elphaba faces multiple moral dilemmas throughout her life, particularly in her relationship with power. Her initial idealism morphs into a desperate grasp for autonomy and respect in a society that belittles her. Many scholars argue that she transitions from seeking to do good to embracing darker methods of exerting influence.
An analysis of character transformation in literature indicates that often, a character’s core motivation can shift drastically due to external pressures. In Elphaba’s case, the desire for agency becomes warped into a desire for power, reflecting a tragic descent.
The Turning Point: The Death of Fiyero
The pivotal moment in Elphaba’s transformation into the Wicked Witch comes when she loses Fiyero, the only person who understood her struggles. His death is not just a personal loss, but a fundamental fracture in her faith in humanity. In many narratives, the loss of a loved one drives a character to extremes, and Elphaba’s story is a stark example of this literary trope.
Case Studies: Real-Life Parallels
Elphaba’s transformation can be compared to real-life cases where individuals perceive injustice and react by embracing adversarial roles. For instance:
- Activists who turn radical: Some individuals exposed to systemic injustices initially seek reform but may later embrace more violent or stringent measures when reform seems unattainable.
- Societal scapegoats: Individuals treated as outcasts in society may adopt a persona that mirrors their treatment, leading them to become what society labels them as.
Conclusion: The Complexity of Evil
Elphaba’s journey in “Wicked” serves as a profound commentary on the nature of evil, challenging readers to reconsider their definitions. Rather than an inherently evil figure, Elphaba embodies the complexities of human experiences — shaped by love, loss, and societal rejection. Her transition from misunderstood idealist to the Wicked Witch prompts reflection on how society treats its outcasts and the potential for redemption or further despair in the face of systemic injustice.
