When do the flying monkeys join Elphaba? This question has intrigued fans of “Wicked,” the popular musical and novel by Gregory Maguire. The flying monkeys, a fearsome group of creatures, play a significant role in the story, and their introduction is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the unfolding drama. Understanding when and why they join Elphaba is crucial to grasping the depth of the characters and the themes of the narrative.
The flying monkeys, originally known as the monkeys of Agrabah, are introduced in the novel as a group of loyal subjects under the control of the Wicked Witch of the West. They are portrayed as a fearsome and relentless force, often used as a tool for the witch’s evil schemes. However, their loyalty is not unwavering, and their connection to Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the East, is a complex one.
In the novel, the flying monkeys do not immediately join Elphaba. Instead, they are first associated with her through her mother, Madam Morrible. Elphaba’s mother is the High Witch of the West, and it is under her rule that the monkeys operate. The monkeys’ association with Elphaba is initially based on her mother’s influence and her role as the High Witch’s heir.
The moment when the flying monkeys truly join Elphaba comes after a series of events that lead to her becoming the Wicked Witch of the East. In the novel, Elphaba’s journey involves her discovering her true identity and her growing resentment towards the Wizard of Oz and the Emerald City. It is during this transformation that the monkeys begin to align themselves with her.
The pivotal moment occurs when Elphaba, now the Wicked Witch of the East, confronts the Wizard of Oz and demands her place in the world. In response, the Wizard unleashes the flying monkeys to attack her. However, instead of following his orders, the monkeys are swayed by Elphaba’s strength and determination. They choose to join her, seeing her as a powerful ally and a force against the Wizard’s oppressive regime.
This moment is significant because it symbolizes the monkeys’ transition from being mere tools of the High Witch to independent agents with their own sense of justice. It also highlights Elphaba’s ability to inspire loyalty and trust, even from those who were once under her mother’s control.
In conclusion, the flying monkeys join Elphaba at a critical juncture in her journey, when she is emerging as a powerful figure in her own right. Their decision to align themselves with her is a testament to her strength and the complex relationships that define the world of “Wicked.” Understanding when and why the flying monkeys join Elphaba is essential to appreciating the depth and nuance of this beloved story.
