The novel The Wizard of Oz was written by L. Frank Baum and was published in 1900. Baum is the communicator of the story, and he attempted to communicate a social commentary in the form of a children’s story. The main demographic of the novel’s audience is children, however, the novel contains messages directed towards an older audience. I consider this book a children’s story because it reads like a fairy tale. Dorothy takes the role of the hero who defeats evil with the help of her companions, Toto, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion. Glinda, the Good Witch, is similar to the fairy godmother from Cinderella. The Wicked Witch of the West and her minions are prime examples of fairy tale villains. However, the role of the wizard is a character I have trouble placing. The role and symbolism behind the Wizard’s character are why I think it would be incorrect to say that Baum did not consider an adult audience. Ultimately, I think there are aspects of this novel that are directed towards children and adult audiences.
In chapter six of the novel, the word “wild” is addressed in the context of describing creatures that live in the realm of nature. Chapter six begins by describing Dorothy and her companions in the forest where they are separated from the rest of civilization, and there they meet the Cowardly Lion. The lion is introduced as a “wild” creature, and later on, in the chapter, “wild” beasts are mentioned. The word “wild” is rhetorically used to appeal to the reader’s pathos. In the chapter, Dorothy states, “..for you will help to keep away the other wild beasts.” The mention of “wild” animals living in the forest is meant to be terrifying because they exhibit uncontrollableness. This usage of “wild” exemplifies an appeal to pathos because Baum wanted to invoke the feeling of fear to emphasize the unknown of nature and the creatures that dwell in it.
-Anna Allen
I agree that this story reads like a fairy tale, but because of the hidden meaning behind the message of each character regarding society, I think it reveals a deep, harder truth than just a fairy tale. I also chose the scene in chapter six about the “wild” beasts and I too think it relates to pathos because of the fear these “wild beasts” install on people. Great blog post!
I loved your reasoning about why the audience could be both adults and children. I definitely agree with that statement and could see why both viewpoints are valid. Great job!
I loved your explanation on the hero and villain scenario that takes place in the story. This is a prime example of how children’s stories usually go. However, I do agree that the wizard persona is where the audience can shift to a older group. Loved your blog post!