Curious to learn about Wicked timeline and if it is a prequel to The Wizard of Oz? The two stories share familiar characters and settings, but Wicked dives deeper into the lives of Glinda and Elphaba, exploring their history long before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz. It reimagines the tale through a fresh perspective that challenges the original narrative.
Here’s a breakdown of how Wicked ties into The Wizard of Oz, the key events it covers, and why its classification as a prequel isn’t as straightforward as it seems.
Is Wicked a prequel or a sequel to Wizard of Oz?
The answer is both yes and no.
Wicked serves as a prequel in that it explores the backstory of characters who play central roles in The Wizard of Oz, particularly Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch. However, it extends beyond the prequel format, offering a reimagining of the Oz story that also includes events happening parallel to and after Dorothy’s journey.
To understand Wicked’s relationship to The Wizard of Oz, it’s important to note that Wicked is not directly based on L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900) or its 1939 film adaptation. Instead, it draws from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. Maguire’s novel reframes the narrative, portraying Elphaba not as a one-dimensional villain but as a complex, misunderstood character caught in the political and social dynamics of Oz.
Wicked begins before Dorothy arrives in Oz. It details Elphaba’s childhood, her time at Shiz University, and her friendship with Glinda. As the story unfolds, Elphaba becomes aware of the corruption in Oz, orchestrated by the Wizard and Madame Morrible. The first part concludes with Elphaba going on the run, disillusioned by the Wizard’s regime. The second part overlaps with Dorothy’s story, offering a new perspective through Elphaba and Glinda. It portrays Elphaba’s “wickedness” as a label forced upon her by others.
While Wicked acts as a precursor to some events in The Wizard of Oz, it also expands the narrative. By presenting an alternative viewpoint, it explores themes of morality, power, and friendship. This makes Wicked a reimagining rather than a simple prequel or sequel.
