Getting "Wicked"
By: James Laughlin
Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
Themes:
Racism- Animals are seen as unworthy of given a proper title. Some animals have proper names, but are taken away by Madame Morrible and the Wizard. Many animals are killed due to being seen as inferior and not worthy of living an intelligent life.
Feminism- The power of women is very strong in the novel. Elphaba rises against the Wizard in a great plot to overthrow his power. Madame Morrible is a perfect example of a feminist. Elphaba becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. Galinda becomes "simply Glinda."
Religion/spirituality- Elphaba's father is a minister of the Unnamed God. The Clock of the Great Time Dragon is viewed as a pagan God and can tell the future. Elphaba represents atheism. The house falling on the Wicked Witch of the East is seen as a Divine intervention. Dorothy is seen as a Savior.