Elphaba’s Defiance and Flight in Wicked: A Deeper Look
The character of Elphaba from the Wicked musical has captured the hearts of many with her complex journey and powerful feats. One of the most iconic scenes in the play comes at the end of Act 1, where Elphaba runs from the Wizard’s chamber to prevent the truth from getting out. This act sparks a critical question: why does Elphaba defy the Wizard and fly away from his castle in that moment? To answer this, we must explore the broader context and deeper motivations of Elphaba's actions.
The Setting and Immediate Context
The scene is set in theWizard’s chamber in the Emerald City. Madame Morrible, a witch and advisor, warns Oz that Elphaba possesses a green skin and that this could spell trouble for those in power. With this in mind, we can infer that the Wizard and his associates are nervous about Elphaba and her potential to expose their corrupt and hypocritical ways. Madam Morrible encourages this fear, perhaps to manipulate the situation in her favor or to maintain her position of power.
Elphaba, already feeling isolated and misunderstood, cannot bear the thought of her people knowing the truth of her green skin. This fear, combined with her desire to protect her identity and the injustice she has witnessed, motivates her to take flight. The initial reaction of warning and intimidation from Madame Morrible and the Wizard signifies that their actions are designed to suppress Elphaba and maintain their control over Oz.
The Revelation of Hyocrisy and Corruption
Upon closer inspection, it is not just the revelation of Elphaba’s green skin that drives the characters to act. The real issue at play is the hypocrisy and corruption that the Wizard represents. The Wizard’s self-righteous claims of power and justice are scrubbed clean, showing the stark contrast between his words and his actions. This realization is a catalyst for Elphaba's actions, as she must act swiftly to prevent the truth from being covertly spread by Madame Morrible.
More significantly, Elphaba recognizes the pervasive corruption in the Emerald City from those in power. She cultivates a deep disdain for the Wizard, who exploits and misguides the people for his own benefit. Edgar Selwyn’s wallpaper disagreement might serve as a small skirmish but pales in comparison to the magnitude of the Wizard's hypocrisy. Elphaba’s values and sense of justice cannot coexist with the Wizard's corrupt rule. Her decision to defy him stems from the need to stand against corruption and injustice, an act that aligns with her character's overarching motivations.
The Significance of "Defying Gravity"
The Defying Gravity number that follows encapsulates both the physical and emotional journey Elphaba goes through. This act is not merely a flight from a physical space but a spiritual and symbolic escape from the constraints and expectations of the adult world. In this song, Elphaba channels her emotions and declares her defiance in a vivid and powerful manner. The chorus of “I’d rather face theHandledEye than disappear” highlights her determination to fight for what she believes in against the forces of corruption and hypocrisy.
The journey Elphaba takes in “Defying Gravity” is emblematic of her personal growth and the internal conflict she experiences. It is a metaphor for her refusal to let societal norms and expectations dictate her actions. By flying away, Elphaba asserts her independence and refuses to be reduced to a mere spectacle or tool for others' manipulation. This empowerment and defiance set her on a path towards self-discovery and a deeper understanding of her place in the world.
Conclusion
The decision for Elphaba to defy the Wizard and fly away from his castle signifies a crucial turning point in the narrative of the Wicked play. Her actions stem from a deep-seated belief in justice and a profound dissatisfaction with the corrupt structures of power she witnesses. This scene, while seemingly a small act at first glance, is a massive moment that propels her towards new beginnings and a more authentic self.
The Defying Gravity musical number amplifies her defiance and sets the stage for her subsequent journey. Through her actions, Elphaba becomes a symbol of resistance against corruption and a champion for those who feel silenced and oppressed. This scene resonates with audiences not just for its spectacular imagery, but for the underlying message of standing up for what you believe in.