Wicked Analysis Flashcards
What is the main storyline of Wicked: Part 1?
Elphaba, born with green skin, faces prejudice and misunderstanding. At Shiz University, she forms an unlikely friendship with Glinda, showcasing her magical abilities. Their bond is tested when they uncover the Wizard’s corrupt exploitation of magical creatures, leading Elphaba to embrace her ‘wicked’ identity in defiance.
What event marks Elphaba’s transformation?
Elphaba’s transformation is marked by her defiant embrace of her identity in the ‘Defying Gravity’ sequence, where she rejects the Wizard’s authority and takes a stand against systemic corruption.
What narrative structure does Wicked: Part 1 use?
The story is primarily linear, progressing chronologically, but includes flashbacks to illuminate Elphaba’s motivations. It also uses a circular structure, opening with the celebration of her ‘death,’ creating a narrative loop that builds anticipation.
How does Wicked: Part 1 incorporate Todorov’s Equilibrium Theory?
The initial equilibrium is Elphaba’s outsider status, which is disrupted by the Wizard’s corruption. The narrative ends with an unresolved equilibrium as Elphaba embraces rebellion, setting up the next part.
Name two narrative devices used in the film.
1) Restricted point of view aligns the audience with Elphaba, challenging the traditional ‘wicked witch’ portrayal. 2) Flashbacks provide context for Elphaba’s relationships and actions, particularly with her sister Nessarose.
How does dramatic irony enhance the story?
Dramatic irony plays on the audience’s prior knowledge of The Wizard of Oz, creating tension and subverting expectations about the characters and events.
What drives Elphaba’s actions throughout the film?
Elphaba is driven by her sense of justice and morality, challenging societal norms and fighting against the Wizard’s corruption.
Who is the primary antagonist in Wicked: Part 1?
The Wizard serves as the main antagonist, representing oppressive power and manipulative propaganda.
How does Glinda contribute to the story’s central conflicts?
Glinda contrasts Elphaba by embodying societal expectations and privilege. Her character highlights the conflict between conformity and rebellion.
Name the main conflicts Elphaba faces.
Elphaba grapples with societal prejudice, the Wizard’s tyranny, and the complexities of her friendship with Glinda.
What are the defining features of Wicked: Part 1 as a genre?
The film blends fantasy and musical genres. The imaginative world of Oz includes magical creatures and moral ambiguity, while songs propel the narrative and deepen character development.
What fantasy tropes are used in the film?
The film incorporates the hero’s journey, an alternate world, and an exploration of moral ambiguity.
How do the musical elements contribute to the story?
Songs like ‘Popular’ and ‘Defying Gravity’ reveal character motivations, advance the plot, and heighten emotional impact.
Name two stylistic choices that reinforce themes in Wicked: Part 1.
1) Vivid colors for Glinda’s world contrast with darker tones for Elphaba’s, representing their opposing perspectives. 2) Sweeping camera movements and dramatic lighting heighten the emotional intensity of musical numbers.
How does the film critique binary morality?
The film challenges simplistic ideas of ‘good’ and ‘evil’ by portraying Elphaba as a complex character driven by compassion and justice, encouraging viewers to question societal labels.
How does Elphaba’s green skin function as a metaphor?
Elphaba’s green skin represents societal bias against visible differences, highlighting themes of marginalization and prejudice.
What real-world systems does the Wizard’s character critique?
The Wizard mirrors real-world systems of control and misinformation, emphasizing the dangers of propaganda and unchecked power.
How does Glinda’s arc address privilege?
Glinda’s journey explores the challenges of confronting societal norms and complicity despite her privilege, illustrating the difficulty of choosing between acceptance and values.
How does Wicked: Part 1 use narrative structure to challenge the traditional portrayal of Elphaba?
The linear structure with flashbacks allows audiences to understand Elphaba’s motivations, while the circular narrative beginning with her ‘death’ creates anticipation and subverts expectations.
What is the significance of the restricted point of view?
It aligns the audience with Elphaba, encouraging empathy for her struggles and challenging the traditional portrayal of her as a villain.
How does the film’s genre contribute to its exploration of themes?
The fantasy setting explores societal prejudice and moral ambiguity, while musical numbers amplify character development and emotional impact.
What are the key takeaways regarding identity, societal expectations, and agency?
The film emphasizes the power of embracing one’s true identity, challenging societal expectations, and fighting for justice despite prejudice.
