"The Wiz" essay

Markeia Scruggs
September 22, 2009
“The Wiz” Essay
According to Webster’s Dictionary, the definition of family is a group of persons of common ancestry, but Dorthy’s family thought it to be much more than just a group of related people. They valued family and through a series of events, Dorthy came to value and understand the notion of family.
Dorthy first doesn’t understand how lucky she is to have such a loving and reliable family, but after she is sent to Oz, she begins to understand the notion of family. “I don’t want these shoes, I wanna go home!” Dorthy cries. “I wish I was home.” This is the first event that makes Dorthy really realize that she needs her family. Because she is sent away from her home, she yearns for the wonderful family that awaits for her at home. Dorthy’s extreme need for shelter, family and security is shown through these quotes.
After Dorthy finally realizes that she has such a wonderful family that cares for her dearly, she starts her journey to see the Wizard. On her way, she meets a scarecrow and helps him. Dorthy states, “ I thought that maybe we could get you a brain.” Because she comes from such a loving family, the kindness and generosity instilled in her by them allows her to help the scarecrow and her other two companions.
By helping the scarecrow, the lion and the tin man, they become her temporary family. Even though she misses her own family, she is able to be a “leader” for her three companions. Through her meny obstacles, Dorthy is able to understand the notion of family and even become a family with her friends.