# Old Friends Are Reunited explained — Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz

> Chapter companion for Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz by L. Frank Baum.

## What happens

Dorothy, Zeb, and the Wizard arrive in the Emerald City and are warmly welcomed by old friends, including Jellia Jamb, the Scarecrow, Billina, the Tin Woodman, and the Woggle-Bug. The Wizard explains the origin of his name and his connection to Oz. Zeb is given fine clothes and meets Princess Ozma. Tensions arise between Eureka and Billina, but Dorothy quells the quarrel.

## Themes in this chapter

### Friendship and Loyalty

The warm reunions between Dorothy, the Wizard, and their old friends highlight enduring bonds.

### Hospitality and Generosity

The Emerald City's inhabitants welcome the newcomers with open arms, providing rooms, clothes, and a feast.

### Transformation and Identity

Zeb's change of clothes and the Wizard's explanation of his name both explore themes of personal reinvention.

## Character check-ins

### Dorothy Gale

Reunites with Billina and scolds Eureka for her jealousy.

### The Wizard

Returns to the Emerald City and recounts the story of his name and arrival in Oz.

### Zeb

Is given fine clothes and meets Princess Ozma and other Oz inhabitants.

### Jim the Cab-Horse

Is given a room in the palace after some confusion about his appearance.

### Billina

Appears wearing pearls and emeralds; quarrels with Eureka but is defended by Dorothy.

### Eureka the Kitten

Jealous of Billina and attempts to strike her, but is scolded by Dorothy.

## Key lines

> “How are your brains?” enquired the little humbug, as he grasped the soft, stuffed hands of his old friend. “Working finely,” answered the Scarecrow. “I’m very certain, Oz, that you gave me the best brains in the world, for I can think with them day and night, when all other brains are fast asleep.”

The Wizard asks the Scarecrow how his brains are functioning, and the Scarecrow replies that they work perfectly, allowing him to think constantly.

_Highlights the enduring friendship and the Scarecrow's gratitude for the Wizard's gift._

> “Sir,” said he to the latter, “I never can thank you enough for the excellent heart you once gave me. It has made me many friends, I assure you, and it beats as kindly and lovingly today as it every did.”

The Tin Woodman thanks the Wizard for the heart he received, saying it has helped him form many friendships and still beats with kindness.

_Emphasizes the theme of friendship and the lasting impact of the Wizard's gifts._

> “Please tell me, Mr. Wizard, whether you called yourself Oz after this great country, or whether you believe my country is called Oz after you.”

Princess Ozma asks the Wizard whether he named himself after the land of Oz or the land was named after him.

_Leads to the Wizard's explanation of his name and origin, a key moment of identity revelation._

## Links

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