Wicked

Perspective & Sympathy: Wicked tells the story of The Wizard of Oz from the Wicked Witch's perspective. How does this change in narrative shape your feelings towards Elphaba? What does this imply about how the narratives we encounter — and who shares them — influence our views on "good" and "evil"?

Nature vs. Nurture: Elphaba is born unique and faces ostracism from the start. To what degree do you think her surroundings and the treatment she receives contribute to her being seen as "wicked," compared to any inherent traits she might have? Provide specific examples from the text to back up your opinion.

Political Power & Oppression: The Wizard of Oz maintains control over Oz through fear, propaganda, and the denial of Animal rights. How does Maguire use the political setting of Oz to comment on actual systems of power and oppression? What similarities can you identify with historical or modern societies?

Identity & Labels: Characters in the novel grapple with how society categorizes them. How do labels like "wicked," "good," or "Animal" serve as instruments of social control in Oz? Is it possible for someone to completely break free from the label given to them by society?

Morality & Ambiguity: Maguire intentionally avoids providing clear moral conclusions. By the end of the novel, do you believe Elphaba is genuinely "wicked"? What does the story ultimately convey about morality — is it fixed or fluid?

Friendship & Betrayal: The bond between Elphaba and Glinda is a key element of the narrative. How does their friendship develop, and how do societal expectations, ambition, and fear create distance between them? What does their dynamic reveal about the sacrifices involved in conformity?

Perspective & Sympathy: Wicked presents The Wizard of Oz through the eyes of the Wicked Witch. How does this change in narrative perspective influence your feelings towards Elphaba? What does this imply about how we judge "villains" in both fiction and real life?

Nature vs. Nurture: As the story unfolds, characters engage in discussions about whether Elphaba is born wicked or made wicked by her environment. Which side does the text seem to lean towards, and what examples can you use to support your interpretation?

Political Power & Oppression: Maguire uses the world of Oz to symbolize political oppression and social injustice. What real-world power structures or historical moments does the treatment of the Animals (sentient beings denied rights) in Oz bring to mind? In what ways does Elphaba's activism reflect or complicate those comparisons?

Identity & Otherness: Elphaba’s green skin sets her apart as distinctly "other." How does the novel delve into the experience of being visibly different in a society that values conformity? Can you relate her experience to wider themes of race, disability, or gender?

Good vs. Evil: The book questions the straightforward division between good and evil. By the story's conclusion, do you find Glinda or Elphaba to be the more morally intricate character? Is either one genuinely "good"? What insights does Maguire offer about the very nature of goodness?

Revisionist Storytelling: Maguire intentionally reimagines a cherished cultural tale. What ethical and artistic duties does an author have when retelling a well-known story? Does knowing the "original" ending alter your experience of Wicked?