Comparing 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' Novel (1900) and the Classic Film (1939)

When exploring the adaptation of L. Frank Baum's 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' from the novel to the classic film, many modifications and adjustments are made to suit varying mediums. This article delves into the significant differences that stand out between these two classic works, focusing on 'The Wizard of Oz' novel (1900) and the 1939 film adaptation.

Introduction to 'The Wizard of Oz' Novel

'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,' originally published in 1900, is a children's novel by L. Frank Baum. It tells the story of Dorothy and her adventures in the Land of Oz.

Basic Plot Comparison

Both the novel and the film share a similar basic plot, but significant elements are changed or omitted in the adaptation. Here's a comparative summary of the key plot points:

Dorothy's Journey to Oz

In the novel, Dorothy is taken to Oz by a cyclone. The cyclone accidentally kills the Witch of the East. Dorothy and Toto, her companion, seek advice from the Wizard of Oz to find a way home. In the film, a more complex backstory involving Miss Gulch and Toto is added, which is not present in the novel.

Companions and Their Quest

The novel introduces Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion with rich backstories and personalities, each of whom acquire a critical ability on their journey to Oz. The 1939 film adaptation streamlines these narratives, giving Dorothy companions who also seek the Wizard's help for various reasons.

Returning Home

In the novel, Dorothy returns to Kansas and discovers that the enchanted shoes she was wearing had the power to take her home all along. The film simplifies this discovery, adding the iconic ruby slippers and the memorable line 'There's no place like home.'

Key Differences Between the Novel and Film

Setting: Dream vs. Reality

In 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' novel, Oz is a real place, while in the 1939 film, it's portrayed as a dream world. This difference affects the entire narrative and the characters' experiences:

Novel: Dorothy and her companions physically traverse Oz and stay there for weeks, eventually returning home to Kansas. Film: Dorothy's journey is depicted as a dream, leading to a more magical and fantastical portrayal of Oz.

Characters and Their Backstories

Both the novel and film introduce new characters and backgrounds, but the details and significance of these changes vary:

Novel: Characters like Professor Marvel and various farmhands play minor roles and are not present in the film. The backgrounds of Dorothy, Toto, and the companions are elaborated, providing clarity to their motivations and paths to Oz. Film: The story is simplified, with some backstories combined or removed. Miss Gulch is introduced as a villain who wants to take Toto, adding an extra layer to the plot.

Story Arcs and Peril

The novel and film differ in how they handle the challenges and dangers encountered by Dorothy's group:

Novel: The Wicked Witch of the West appears more as a natural obstacle, with the companions overcoming many of the perils through their own strengths and wit. Film: The Wicked Witch of the West takes a more prominent role, interfering with the group's journey and causing more direct threats, sometimes supernatural in nature.

Wizard's Role

The presentation of the Wizard varies between the novel and the film:

Novel: The Wizard is a shapeshifter, appearing in many different forms and guises to Dorothy and her companions. He fills the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion with manufactured representations of the qualities they seek. Film: The Wizard, played by Frank Morgan, is a more straightforward character who fills the Scarecrow's head with bran and calls it 'bran-new brains,' giving the Tin Woodman a silk heart, and making the Cowardly Lion drink a liquid that grants him courage.

Resolution and Conclusion

Both the novel and the film have a similar ending, but the methods and details differ slightly:

Novel: Dorothy visits Glinda in the South and learns about the power of her shoes, using this knowledge to command the Winged Monkeys to return her and her companions to the Emerald City by the Wizard's palace. Film: Glinda tells Dorothy how to use the magical ruby slippers to return home, leading to a celebratory moment for the group.

Conclusion

While both 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' novel and the 1939 film adaptation share the same core story, the differences in setting, character development, and narrative style make each version unique. The novel provides a richer, more detailed storyline that emphasizes character growth and resilience, whereas the film simplifies and mythologizes the narrative for cinematic appeal.

Explore Further

If you're interested in exploring the evolution of this beloved story, you can delve into how other adaptations and interpretations have transformed 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.' From stage plays to modern films and video games, each version brings its own unique perspective and interpretations to the original tale.