Ozma of Oz · Chapter
Dorothy's Magic Belt explained
Dorothy spends happy weeks in Oz but grows concerned for Uncle Henry after seeing him in Ozma's magic picture.
What happens
Dorothy spends happy weeks in Oz but grows concerned for Uncle Henry after seeing him in Ozma's magic picture. She consults Glinda, who advises that the magic belt's power only works in fairyland. Dorothy decides to give the belt to Ozma, who can use it to transport her to Australia without losing the belt. After farewells, Dorothy is wished to Uncle Henry and finds him ill but comforted by her return.
Themes in this chapter
Home and Belonging
Dorothy chooses to return to her uncle despite the wonders of Oz, emphasizing the pull of home and family.
Friendship and Loyalty
Dorothy's bond with Ozma and her Oz friends is shown through their sorrowful farewell and the agreement to stay in touch via the magic picture.
Resourcefulness and Cleverness
Dorothy cleverly gives the belt to Ozma to avoid losing its magic, ensuring she can return to Uncle Henry while preserving the belt's power.
Characters to notice
- Dorothy Gale
Decides to return to Uncle Henry after seeing him in the magic picture; gives the magic belt to Ozma to preserve its power.
- Ozma
Hosts Dorothy in Oz, shows her the magic picture, and agrees to use the belt to send Dorothy home.
- Billina
Refuses to leave Oz, preferring its bugs and ants; calls Dorothy foolish for returning to the humdrum world.
- Tik-Tok
Wants to go to Australia but is left in Ozma's care because his machinery might not work in a civilized country.
- Glinda the Good
Advises Dorothy on the limitations of the magic belt and approves her plan to give it to Ozma.
- Uncle Henry
Shown in Australia looking sad and ill; Dorothy returns to nurse him back to health.
Key passages
“The bugs and ants that I find here are the finest flavored in the world”
Billina claims the local insects are the tastiest anywhere.
Billina's reason for staying in Oz.
“Uncle Henry needs me”
Dorothy explains her decision to return is because her uncle requires her care.
Dorothy's simple motivation for leaving Oz.