The Wonderful Wizard of Oz · Chapter
Away to the South explained
Dorothy weeps over her lost chance to return to Kansas via Oz's balloon but is glad she didn't go.
What happens
Dorothy weeps over her lost chance to return to Kansas via Oz's balloon but is glad she didn't go. The Scarecrow becomes ruler of the Emerald City, and the companions discuss Dorothy's desire to go home. The Winged Monkeys cannot help her cross the desert, but a soldier suggests seeking Glinda the Good Witch of the South. Despite dangers, the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion all vow to accompany Dorothy on the journey south.
Themes in this chapter
Home and Belonging
Dorothy's primary motivation is to return to Kansas and her family, highlighting the theme of home and belonging.
Friendship and Loyalty
The Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion all vow to stay with Dorothy and help her, demonstrating deep friendship and loyalty.
Characters to notice
- Dorothy
Weeps at losing hope to return to Kansas but is glad she didn't go in the balloon; seeks help from Winged Monkeys and then decides to journey to Glinda.
- Tin Woodman
Mourns Oz's departure, weeps with Dorothy's help, and volunteers to accompany Dorothy to the Land of the South.
- Scarecrow
Now ruler of the Emerald City; suggests calling the Winged Monkeys and later decides to join Dorothy on the journey south.
- Cowardly Lion
Declares he is tired of the city and longs for the wild; offers to protect Dorothy on the journey.
- Winged Monkeys
Summoned by Dorothy but cannot help her cross the desert as they belong only to Oz.
Key passages
“Dorothy wept bitterly at the passing of her hope to get home to Kansas again; but when she thought it all over she was glad she had not gone up in a balloon.”
Dorothy cried over losing her chance to return to Kansas, yet felt relieved she hadn't taken the balloon ride.
Dorothy's mixed feelings about missing the balloon.
“If Dorothy would only be contented to live in the Emerald City, we might all be happy together.”
The Scarecrow wished Dorothy would be happy staying in the Emerald City so they could all remain together.
The Scarecrow's desire for the group to stay united.
“I shall go with Dorothy, for I am tired of your city and long for the woods and the country again. I am really a wild beast, you know. Besides, Dorothy will need someone to protect her.”
The Lion declared he would accompany Dorothy because he missed the wilderness and wanted to protect her.
The Lion's reason for joining the journey.