The Road to Oz · Question
How does The Road to Oz develop the theme of Home and Belonging?
Answer
The Road to Oz by L. Frank Baum develops Home and Belonging across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Dorothy's desire to return to Kansas contrasts with the welcoming, idyllic nature of Oz, exploring the tension between the comfort of home and the allure of a place where one is valued and can belong, ultimately suggesting that home is where one is loved.
The restoration of their true forms brings the characters closer to their goal of reaching Ozma's celebration, symbolizing a return to belonging.
The Shaggy Man expresses a desire to belong in Oz, and the Tin Woodman's castle represents a welcoming home.
Jack creates a home in a hollow pumpkin and finds belonging in his pumpkin field, emphasizing the importance of a place to call one's own.
Evidence in the book
- XIII: The Truth Pond
The restoration of their true forms brings the characters closer to their goal of reaching Ozma's celebration, symbolizing a return to belonging.
- The Emperor’s Tin Castle
The Shaggy Man expresses a desire to belong in Oz, and the Tin Woodman's castle represents a welcoming home.
- Visiting the Pumpkin-Field
Jack creates a home in a hollow pumpkin and finds belonging in his pumpkin field, emphasizing the importance of a place to call one's own.
- The Royal Chariot Arrives
The travelers' approach to the Emerald City and the warm reception from old friends reinforce the theme of finding a place of belonging.
- The Emerald City
Dorothy feels at home in the Emerald City as a princess, contrasting with her Kansas life, while the shaggy man hopes Ozma will let him live there.
- The Shaggy Man's Welcome
The Shaggy Man, who has never been welcomed anywhere, finds a sense of home and comfort in Ozma's palace.
- Princess Ozma of Oz
Dorothy and her friends find a warm welcome in the Emerald City, and the Shaggy Man expresses a desire to become a loyal subject of Oz.
- The Birthday Celebration
Dorothy ultimately returns to Kansas, reflecting her connection to her home, while Polychrome returns to her father, and the Shaggy Man seeks a permanent place in Oz.
