The Wizard of Oz: Parable on Populism

The Wizard of Oz: Parable on Populism

1.  Define Populism.

2.  Explain how Baum’s life experienced influenced his work?

3.  On page 48, the author of this article cites a passage from Henry Nash Smith in which he mentions “juggling freight rates.” What Supreme Court cases is this in reference to? Explain.

4.  Baum’s stay in South Dakota coincided with the rise of what political movement?

5.  What election was Baum a part of in 1896? What was the central issue?

6.  Pages 51-52- What does the Tin Woodman represent? How does it relate to the economic crisis?

7.  What do the silver shoes and the yellow brick road represent?

8.  Who does the Scarecrow represent? What article is cited as the origin of this representation?

9.  Who does the Lion represent?

10.  Define Coxey’s Army. How does it fit into the story?

11.  What city does the Emerald City represent?

12.  According to this article, who do the Winged Monkey’s represent?

13.  On page 56, what is the Witch of the West said to represent?

14.  What is your overall all reaction to this reading?