Estimated read time: 6 min read
Table of Contents
List of Characters
| Character | Role |
|---|---|
| Elphaba Thropp | Protagonist, the Wicked Witch of the West |
| Galinda (Glinda) | Elphaba's friend, later the Good Witch of the North |
| Fiyero | Elphaba’s love interest |
| Nessarose Thropp | Elphaba’s sister, the Wicked Witch of the East |
| Madame Morrible | Headmistress of Shiz University |
| The Wizard | Antagonist, ruler of Oz |
| Doctor Dillamond | A Goat professor at Shiz University |
| Boq | Munchkin student, has a crush on Galinda |
Role Identification
Elphaba Thropp
Elphaba is the central character, around whom the narrative revolves. Her journey from a misunderstood child to the infamous Wicked Witch of the West forms the core of the story.
Galinda (Glinda)
Initially Elphaba's college roommate, Galinda transforms into Glinda the Good, providing a counterpoint to Elphaba’s character.
Fiyero
Fiyero is the romantic interest who plays a pivotal role in Elphaba’s personal development and emotional journey.
Nessarose Thropp
Nessarose, Elphaba’s sister, assumes the role of the Wicked Witch of the East, adding depth to Elphaba's family dynamics.
Madame Morrible
A manipulative figure, Morrible serves as a catalyst in Elphaba’s transformation by influencing events at Shiz University.
The Wizard
The Wizard is the antagonist whose policies and actions push Elphaba towards rebellion.
Doctor Dillamond
An intellectual Goat and a victim of the Wizard’s oppressive regime, Dillamond influences Elphaba’s views on social justice.
Boq
A Munchkin with unrequited love for Galinda, Boq’s interactions add layers to the social dynamics at Shiz University.
Character Descriptions
Elphaba Thropp
Elphaba is characterized by her green skin, a physical distinction that sets her apart and subjects her to prejudice. Intelligent and fiercely independent, she is driven by a strong sense of justice.
Galinda (Glinda)
Galinda is depicted as initially superficial and self-absorbed, but she evolves into a compassionate and wise figure, embodying the traditional qualities of a fairy-tale witch.
Fiyero
Fiyero is portrayed as a carefree and charming prince, whose relationship with Elphaba reveals his depth and complexity.
Nessarose Thropp
Nessarose, bound to a wheelchair, is initially seen as pious and sympathetic, but her authoritarian tendencies emerge as she gains power.
Madame Morrible
Morrible is depicted as cunning and power-hungry, using her position to exert control over her students.
The Wizard
The Wizard appears charismatic but is ultimately revealed to be manipulative and tyrannical, using his authority for oppressive ends.
Doctor Dillamond
Dillamond is a symbol of the marginalized, representing the struggle against discrimination and the pursuit of equality.
Boq
Boq is earnest and well-meaning, though often blinded by his infatuation with Galinda, which affects his decisions.
Character Traits
| Character | Traits |
|---|---|
| Elphaba | Intelligent, independent, compassionate, rebellious |
| Galinda | Superficial (initially), empathetic, charismatic |
| Fiyero | Charismatic, introspective, loyal |
| Nessarose | Pious, authoritarian, conflicted |
| Madame Morrible | Manipulative, authoritative, strategic |
| The Wizard | Charismatic, deceptive, tyrannical |
| Doctor Dillamond | Intellectual, idealistic, oppressed |
| Boq | Earnest, infatuated, loyal |
Character Background
Elphaba Thropp
Born to a governor and a mysterious mother, Elphaba's green skin marks her as different from birth. Her upbringing in Munchkinland, amidst societal prejudice, shapes her worldview.
Galinda (Glinda)
Galinda hails from a wealthy family, embodying the privilege and expectations of high society. Her transformation into Glinda the Good marks her departure from her roots.
Fiyero
A prince from the Vinkus, Fiyero’s background provides him with a unique perspective on privilege and responsibility.
Nessarose Thropp
Nessarose's life is shaped by her disability and her father’s favoritism, leading her to seek validation and power.
Madame Morrible
Little is known about Morrible’s past, but her position at Shiz University suggests a history of ambition and cunning.
The Wizard
Originating from another world, the Wizard’s background reveals his outsider status, motivating his quest for power in Oz.
Doctor Dillamond
Dillamond’s background as an Animal intellectual highlights his role as a victim of the Wizard’s oppressive regime.
Boq
Boq’s humble beginnings as a Munchkin farmer’s son contrast with the ambitions he harbors at Shiz University.
Character Arcs
Elphaba Thropp
Elphaba’s arc is one of transformation from a misunderstood, idealistic student to a figure feared and reviled as the Wicked Witch. Her journey explores themes of identity, power, and social justice.
Galinda (Glinda)
Galinda’s evolution into Glinda the Good reflects her growth from superficiality to genuine empathy and leadership.
Fiyero
Fiyero’s arc centers on his shift from a carefree prince to a man of conscience, influenced by his love for Elphaba.
Nessarose Thropp
Nessarose’s descent into authoritarianism highlights her internal conflicts and struggle for acceptance.
Madame Morrible
Morrible’s arc underscores her manipulative nature and her role in shaping the destinies of her students.
The Wizard
The Wizard’s facade of benevolence crumbles, revealing his true nature as a dictator and his ultimate downfall.
Doctor Dillamond
Dillamond’s arc, though tragic, empowers Elphaba’s resolve against injustice, emphasizing his role as a catalyst.
Boq
Boq’s journey from infatuation to self-awareness adds depth to his character, reflecting his internal and external struggles.
Relationships
Elphaba and Galinda (Glinda)
Their relationship evolves from rivalry to deep friendship, marked by mutual influence and understanding.
Elphaba and Fiyero
Their love story is central to Elphaba’s emotional journey, characterized by passion, sacrifice, and tragedy.
Elphaba and Nessarose
The sisters share a complex relationship, defined by familial loyalty and ideological differences.
Elphaba and Madame Morrible
Morrible’s manipulation of Elphaba highlights the power dynamics at play in their interactions.
Elphaba and The Wizard
Their adversarial relationship underscores the broader conflict between justice and tyranny.
Elphaba and Doctor Dillamond
Dillamond’s mentorship and tragic fate profoundly impact Elphaba’s activism and sense of purpose.
Galinda (Glinda) and Fiyero
Their initial romantic involvement contrasts with the deeper connection Fiyero shares with Elphaba.
Boq and Galinda
Boq’s unrequited love for Galinda underscores the social hierarchies and personal aspirations at Shiz.
This analysis provides a comprehensive exploration of the characters in "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West," offering insights into their roles, traits, backgrounds, and relationships. By understanding these elements, readers can better appreciate the complexities and thematic depth of Gregory Maguire's novel.
