The Wonderful Wizard of Oz · Chapter
III: How Dorothy Saved the Scarecrow explained
Dorothy prepares for her journey to the Emerald City, puts on the silver shoes of the Wicked Witch of the East, and sets off along the yellow brick road.
What happens
Dorothy prepares for her journey to the Emerald City, puts on the silver shoes of the Wicked Witch of the East, and sets off along the yellow brick road. She is welcomed by the Munchkins and stays with Boq. The next day, she meets a living Scarecrow who asks to accompany her to Oz in hopes of getting brains.
Themes in this chapter
Self-Discovery and Fulfillment
Dorothy begins her quest to return home, and the Scarecrow seeks brains, each pursuing personal fulfillment.
Friendship and Loyalty
Dorothy befriends the Scarecrow and agrees to help him, forming the first bond of her journey.
The Journey as Growth
Dorothy's journey along the yellow brick road symbolizes the beginning of her growth and adventure.
Characters to notice
- Dorothy
Prepares for the journey, puts on silver shoes, meets the Scarecrow, and agrees to take him to Oz.
- Toto
Accompanies Dorothy, barks at birds and the Scarecrow, and sleeps beside her.
- Boq
A rich Munchkin who hosts Dorothy, feeds her, and comments on her silver shoes.
- Scarecrow
A living scarecrow who wants brains; Dorothy lifts him off his pole and he joins her journey.
- Munchkins
Celebrate freedom from the Wicked Witch, dance, and welcome Dorothy.
Key passages
“If you will please take away the pole I shall be greatly obliged to you.”
Dorothy lifts the Scarecrow off his pole, freeing him.
Dorothy rescues the Scarecrow from his perch.
“Do you think, if I go to the Emerald City with you, that Oz would give me some brains?”
The Scarecrow asks if Oz can give him brains.
The Scarecrow expresses his desire for intelligence.