The Wonderful Wizard of Oz · Chapter
The Winged Monkeys explained
Lost in the fields, Dorothy uses the Golden Cap to summon the Winged Monkeys, who carry the group to the Emerald City.
What happens
Lost in the fields, Dorothy uses the Golden Cap to summon the Winged Monkeys, who carry the group to the Emerald City. The Monkey King recounts the story of how the Monkeys became bound to serve the owner of the Golden Cap, a tale involving the sorceress Gayelette and her beloved Quelala.
Themes in this chapter
The Journey as Growth
The travelers' lost path and eventual summoning of the Winged Monkeys highlight the journey's challenges and the growth from seeking help.
The Illusion of Power and Authority
The Golden Cap's power over the Winged Monkeys and the story of Gayelette's enchantment illustrate how authority can be imposed and manipulated.
Characters to notice
- Dorothy
Uses the Golden Cap to summon the Winged Monkeys and learns the history of their servitude.
- Scarecrow
Grumble about losing the way; carried by the Monkeys to the Emerald City.
- Tin Woodman
Expresses concern about never getting his heart; carried by the Monkeys.
- Cowardly Lion
Whimpers about lacking courage; carried by the Monkeys and comments on the ride.
- Toto
Too tired to chase a butterfly; carried by a little Monkey.
- Winged Monkeys
Summoned by Dorothy; the King tells the story of their enslavement to the Golden Cap.
- Gayelette
Mentioned in the Monkey King's story as a beautiful sorceress who created the Golden Cap.
- Quelala
Mentioned as Gayelette's beloved and the first owner of the Golden Cap.
Key passages
“We wish to go to the Emerald City, and we have lost our way.”
Dorothy asks the Winged Monkeys to take them to the Emerald City because they are lost.
Dorothy uses her wish to get the group back on track.
“That is a long story; but as we have a long journey before us, I will pass the time by telling you about it, if you wish.”
The Monkey King offers to tell the story of their servitude during the flight.
The King explains the origin of their obedience to the Golden Cap.
“Now the Golden Cap is yours, and three times you have the right to lay your wishes upon us.”
The Monkey King informs Dorothy that she can command them three times.
Dorothy learns the extent of her power over the Winged Monkeys.