Uncover how L. Frank Baum's mother-in-law Matilda Joslyn Gage influenced the iconic Wizard of Oz story, with insights into gender politics, suffrage movement, and feminist symbolism. Discover the personal connections of therapist Dr. Gita Dorothy Morena to the Oz books and explore the impact of strong women characters on the narrative.
Matilda Joslyn Gage's influence on 'The Wizard of Oz' challenged gender norms and societal expectations in literature.
The political and feminist undertones in L. Frank Baum's works reflect his interest in gender fluidity and social commentary.
Deep dives
Reimagining the Wicked Witch of the West
The podcast episode delves into the adaptation of the Wicked Witch of the West from a traditional villain to a misunderstood political renegade in the movie 'Wicked', which originated from a novel by Gregory McGuire. It challenges the common perception of the character by exploring the deeper political and societal themes related to her portrayal.
The Influence of Matilda Jocelyn Gage
Matilda Jocelyn Gage, a historical figure often overlooked, emerges as a key influence behind the scenes of 'The Wizard of Oz'. Her advocacy for women's rights and her controversial book 'Woman, Church, and State' caused rifts in history with prominent figures like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Gage's revolutionary ideas left a lasting impact on Baum's work and the underlying themes within the Oz series.
Gender Fluidity and Progressive Themes in Oz
The podcast highlights the unconventional gender roles and progressive themes subtly embedded in 'The Wizard of Oz' series by L. Frank Baum. Through characters like Dorothy and Ozma, Baum challenges gender norms and societal expectations. The narrative's development towards feminist utopia and exploration of diverse identities reflect Baum's deep-rooted interest in gender fluidity and social commentary.
The Wizard of Oz is deeply ingrained into our culture. While many people can practically recite the 1939 movie, the original source material isn’t as well known. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum was published in 1900. There are a lot of theories as to what inspired Baum – but the answer may be who rather than what. Baum’s mother-in-law Matilda Joslyn Gage was a groundbreaking writer and activist who could’ve been in every high school history textbook if she hadn’t had a falling out with the leaders of the suffrage movement. But her ideas live on in The Land of Oz. I talk with historian Sally Roesch Wagner and UNC-Charlotte professor Dina Massachi about the politics of gender in Gage’s works and Baum’s stories. And I talk with therapist Dr. Gita Dorothy Morena who has a very personal connection to the books.
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