Why did Elphaba fake her death?
Elphaba faked her death because the pervasive and relentless campaign against her throughout Oz had become so widespread that she felt there was no other viable option. Her decision was a desperate measure to escape the intense scrutiny, persecution, and danger she faced.
The Overwhelming Campaign Against Her
The animosity towards Elphaba had reached a critical point, making it impossible for her to live or operate effectively in Oz. By faking her death, specifically through the infamous "death-by-puddle," she sought to vanish from public view and end the constant pursuit and condemnation she endured. This act allowed her to break free from the grip of public opinion and the powerful forces aligned against her.
Her Final Instructions and Legacy
Before disappearing, Elphaba conveyed specific instructions to Glinda. She explicitly asked Glinda not to track her down, emphasizing her desire for complete anonymity and a fresh start away from her past. In a significant gesture, Elphaba also entrusted Glinda with her powerful magic book, the Grimmerie. This was not merely a handover of possessions; it was a hopeful act, as Elphaba intended for Glinda to learn to wield its magic for good. This transfer of knowledge and responsibility highlights Elphaba's underlying hope for a better future, even as she was forced to relinquish her public identity.
Reasons Elphaba Faked Her Death
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Escape Persecution | To evade the widespread and dangerous campaign mounted against her in Oz. |
| Lack of Options | Feeling that no other course of action was available to ensure her safety. |
| Seek Seclusion | A desire to disappear completely and not be pursued or found. |
| Influence Future Through Glinda | To empower Glinda with the Grimmerie to use its magic for benevolent purposes. |
Ultimately, faking her death was Elphaba's strategic move for survival and a subtle attempt to ensure her magic could contribute positively to Oz through Glinda, even in her absence.
