What Happens to Aunt Em?
Aunt Em passes away soon after Dorothy's return from the Land of Oz, but not before demonstrating a profound belief in her niece and giving her a meaningful gift.
Upon Dorothy's extraordinary return from Oz, Aunt Em distinguishes herself as the only family member who truly believes Dorothy's incredible tales of her magical journey. This steadfast belief stands in stark contrast to the rest of the family, who were so skeptical of Dorothy's stories that they even attempted to have her committed.
Key Events Leading to Aunt Em's Fate
Aunt Em's actions during this period highlight her unique and supportive role in Dorothy's life:
- Unwavering Belief: She is the sole individual among Dorothy's family who accepts and believes her accounts of traveling to the magical land.
- Family's Skepticism: The other family members were so incredulous that their reaction led them to try and institutionalize Dorothy.
- Gift of Toto: As a gesture of love and understanding, Aunt Em presents Toto to Dorothy as a cherished gift, acknowledging the special bond between them.
- Her Demise: Shortly after these significant events, Aunt Em dies.
Here’s a summary of the sequence of events concerning Aunt Em's final role:
Event | Description | Significance |
---|---|---|
Dorothy's Homecoming | Dorothy returns to Kansas after her adventures in Oz. | Sets the stage for Aunt Em's final interactions. |
Aunt Em's Support | She is the only family member to believe Dorothy's fantastic stories about Oz. | Underscores her unique empathy and trust towards Dorothy. |
Family's Reaction | Other family members react with disbelief, attempting to have Dorothy committed. | Highlights Aunt Em's isolating position of support. |
Gift of Toto | Aunt Em gives Toto to Dorothy as a gift. | A poignant act of love, solidifying Dorothy's connection with her pet. |
Aunt Em's Passing | She dies soon after these events unfold. | The definitive conclusion of her character's journey in this narrative. |
Aunt Em's final acts emphasize her role as a compassionate and trusting figure in Dorothy's life, providing a poignant conclusion to her character's journey.