The Mystery of Miss Gulch: Unraveling the Ending of The Wizard of Oz

The mystery surrounding Miss Gulch's fate in the classic story of The Wizard of Oz has intrigued fans for decades. The 1939 film adaptation, though beloved, leaves several gaps in its narrative, particularly regarding the enigmatic Miss Gulch. This article delves into the origins of this character, speculates on her final moments, and examines the implications of the film's ending.

Origins and Characterization: Miss Gulch in the Books vs. the Film

In L. Frank Baum's original book series, Miss Gulch is notably absent. The character was specifically created for the film adaptation by MGM as a means to provide Dorothy with a menacing figure in Kansas. Her role as a cruel, scheming neighbor who attempts to take away Dorothy's beloved dog, Toto, adds depth to the story's themes of growth and perseverance.

Miss Gulch's Transformation and Death: A Nightmare or Reality?

The pivotal scene in the film where Miss Gulch transforms into a witch as the house is lifted and blown away to Oz is a memorable yet intriguing one. Following this, Dorothy sees the same house land on a woman who is identified as the witch, seemingly confirming Miss Gulch's death. However, given that Dorothy ultimately wakes up back in Kansas, some viewers are left questioning the nature of what she witnessed.

Is it possible that Miss Gulch died as a result of the tornado? The film provides no explicit confirmation. It could be inferred that the drastic changes seen in the house and its occupant were part of Dorothy's dream, as suggested by the sudden reversion to her normal life. This uncertainty around Miss Gulch's fate adds a layer of complexity to the narrative and invites interpretation.

The Final Scene: A Twist or Just a Dream?

A common discussion among fans revolves around the final scene where Dorothy, along with Aunt Em and other characters, returns to Kansas. An insightful suggestion by one fan is that Toto might jump up on the bed, revealing a small sliver of very bright metallic red fabric under the covers, hinting at Miss Gulch's presence. This theory adds an interesting twist, but it remains speculative.

Another fan points out the potential realism of the scenario: if Miss Gulch was blown by the tornado to a distance, she may have been taken far away from the farm. This narrative resolves the absence of Miss Gulch in the final scene, providing a tidy ending to her character's arc.

However, considering the scenes leading up to Dorothy's return to Kansas, it's also plausible that Miss Gulch was merely a figment of Dorothy's imagination during the tornado, following Toto's escape and the subsequent chase.

Interpreting the Ending: Dorothy's Dream and Messages to Young Girls

The ending of the film has garnered significant criticism for its interpretation of Dorothy's journey. Many view it as a dream sequence, which can be seen as a warning or a moral lesson to young girls about the perils of dreaming beyond their current circumstances. The message conveyed can be interpreted as: don't dream of anything better than what you have; stay at home; grow up to become a traditional wife and mother; and, ultimately, face loss.

This interpretation aligns with the prevalent social and cultural norms of the 1930s but might feel constraining to modern audiences. It raises questions about the inclusivity and acceptance of different life choices and aspirations.

Conclusion

Miss Gulch, while an integral character in the film adaptation of The Wizard of Oz, remains an enigma. Her ultimate fate is left open to interpretation, inviting speculation and fan theories. The film's ending, while pivotal, carries with it deeper layers of meaning and societal messages that continue to resonate with viewers today. Whether Miss Gulch is a fantasy in Dorothy's dream, a victim of the tornado, or a character taken away by the storm, the mystery adds to the enduring appeal of the story.

Keywords: Miss Gulch, Dorothy's dream, Tornado ending, The Wizard of Oz