In your essay, be sure to:

• Formulate a clear, debatable thesis that takes a stance on how Maguire redefines the concepts of evil and villainy.
• Incorporate at least three pieces of textual evidence to bolster your argument, including an analysis of Maguire's language, characterization, and/or narrative structure.
• Address the counterargument: reflect on how Elphaba's own choices and shortcomings complicate a purely sympathetic view of her character.
• Explore how the novel's revisionist fairy-tale structure supports Maguire's thematic intentions.
• Conclude by linking the novel's themes to a wider social or political context (e.g., scapegoating, systemic oppression, identity, or propaganda).

> "There is no such thing as evil — only perspective." Reflect on how this idea is supported, challenged, or complicated throughout the novel.

• Identify and analyze at least two specific narrative or stylistic techniques that Maguire uses (for example, irony, sympathetic characterization, political allegory, or revisionist framing).
• Present a clear argument about what Maguire ultimately conveys regarding morality, identity, or social power.
• Back up your argument with textual evidence and a close reading of important passages.