Theme and Social Issues
Grade 14 · ELA · 45 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can analyze how a theme reflects or comments on social issues.
Warm-Up Video
TED-Ed · 4:44
Does "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" have a hidden message? - David B. Parker
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
Henry Littlefield, a high school teacher, connected "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" to the social and economic issues of the Gilded Age.
- 2
Littlefield interpreted characters like the Scarecrow as the farmer, the Tin Woodman as the industrial worker, and the Cowardly Lion as William Jennings Bryan.
- 3
Some scholars believe the Emerald City represents the dazzling new urban consumer culture, while others maintain the book is simply a children's story.
Practice Questions
10 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Explain how Henry Littlefield's interpretation of "The Wizard of Oz" reflects social issues of The Gilded Age.”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
