The Wiz Characters

 schoolteacher from Harlem. Shy and uncertain. Journey in Oz symbolizes coming of age transformation from her isolation to self assurance and independence. Universal struggle for self identity and empowerment especially in the Black experience of 1970s // personal and cultural embodying resilience

first companion, insecure about intelligence, stuffed with garbage (society fills people with negativity sometimes) - realizes he does have intelligence, self-worth gained. Symbolized oppressed intellect

 2nd companion, wants a heart, emotional and expressive but convinced otherwise rust>emotional stagnation. Learns love has been a part of him all along / emotional core of humanity, need to love and be loved, rust = how the world makes people cold

3rd companion, lacks courage, bold and boastful masking insecurity and fear, learns to value himself and vulnerability, symbolises inner strength and authenticity - active struggle to overcome societal expectations on masculinity

​Villain, sadistic domineering greed, her death liberates workers and restores freedom, symbolises oppressions and exploitation, societal systems dehumanizing working class, obsession with control and denial

guides Dorothy, wise maternal, reminds of moral lesson- inner strength. Symbolises divine wisdom

First witch, kind and comedic scatterbrain, acts as the initiator

Dorothy’s guardian in Harlem, loving and stern, symbolises home and stability with unconditional love that guides Dorothy

Frightened human man, charismatic but insecure, hides behind illusion to remain in control, exposure for being a fraud embarrasses him, but he accepts himself, greatness comes from within, symbolizes illusion of power // political leaders and celebrity culture