Are the flying monkeys on Elphaba’s side? This question has intrigued fans of “Wicked” since the musical first hit the stage. The flying monkeys, a group of enchanted creatures, play a significant role in the story, often depicted as loyal followers of the Wicked Witch of the West, but do they truly align with Elphaba, the protagonist, or do they have their own agenda?
The flying monkeys are initially introduced as a menacing force, tasked with enforcing the witch’s will and spreading fear throughout the land. They are portrayed as mindless drones, devoid of their own thoughts and feelings, controlled by the witch’s dark magic. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that the monkeys are not entirely one-dimensional characters. They exhibit a certain level of intelligence and, in some instances, even show signs of rebellion against their oppressive leader.
In the early stages of the narrative, the flying monkeys do seem to be on the side of the Wicked Witch of the West. They are responsible for her numerous heinous acts, such as the assassination of the Scarecrow and the attempted murder of the Tin Woodman. Yet, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that the monkeys are not as loyal as they appear. There are moments when they question their loyalty to the witch and even show a willingness to defy her orders.
One such instance occurs when the monkeys are sent to kill Elphaba. Instead of carrying out their mission, they hesitate and ultimately choose to protect her. This act of defiance suggests that the monkeys may have their own reasons for siding with Elphaba. Perhaps they have come to see her as a victim of circumstance, forced to conform to the oppressive regime of the witch. Alternatively, they may simply be grateful for Elphaba’s kindness and protection, which contrasts sharply with the cruel treatment they receive from the witch.
Moreover, the monkeys’ decision to protect Elphaba can be seen as a reflection of their own struggle for identity and freedom. Throughout the story, they are constantly reminded of their status as mindless drones, devoid of their own thoughts and feelings. However, as they interact with Elphaba, they begin to question this notion and develop a sense of self-worth. Their loyalty to Elphaba can, therefore, be interpreted as a symbolic act of rebellion against the oppressive forces that have defined their existence.
In conclusion, the flying monkeys are not exclusively on Elphaba’s side, but their actions throughout the story suggest that they have their own reasons for aligning with her. Their initial loyalty to the Wicked Witch of the West is challenged by their interactions with Elphaba, leading them to question their own identity and the oppressive regime they have been a part of. Ultimately, the flying monkeys’ complex relationship with Elphaba adds depth to the narrative and highlights the themes of identity, freedom, and the struggle for power.
