The Wizard of Oz: Setting and Characters

Setting and Characters

• Dorothy Gale lives in a small Kansas town on a farm with Aunt Em and Uncle Henry.
• The story takes place during a windy spring day, depicting a lively countryside atmosphere.
• Toto, Dorothy's loyal dog, plays a significant role in the unfolding events.

Conflict Introduction

• Ms. Gulch is introduced as the meanest woman in town, antagonizing Dorothy and Toto.
• After a confrontation where Toto is yelled at, Dorothy defends him but struggles to gain her aunt and uncle's support regarding Ms. Gulch's threats.

Relationships and Support

• Dorothy has three supportive friends on the farm: Hunk, Zeke, and a third unnamed farmhand, who are willing to listen to her troubles.
• The bond among Dorothy and the farmhands is characterized by kindness, shared laughter, and a sense of camaraderie.

Key Events

• A comedic moment occurs when Zeke heroically dives into the pig pen to save Dorothy after she slips, highlighting the playful interactions on the farm.
• Aunt Em is preoccupied with farm duties, dismissing Dorothy's concerns about Ms. Gulch's threat toward Toto.

Emotional Journey

• Dorothy talks to Toto as if he could provide advice, revealing her feelings of isolation and longing for understanding.
• A sense of impending trouble grows as Ms. Gulch insists on speaking to Aunt Em and Uncle Henry.

Climax and Resolution

• Ms. Gulch threatens to have Toto killed, prompting Dorothy to urgently plead her case to Aunt Em and Uncle Henry, but they remain uninformed and nonresponsive.
• Overwhelmed with emotions, Dorothy retreats to her room, ultimately defeated and feeling unprotected.
• The chapter closes with Ms. Gulch leaving with Toto in a basket on her bike, escalating the tension for future events.