The Wizard Of Oz
Read the following extract carefully before answering the question:
Just as he spoke there came from the forest a terrible roar, and the next moment a great Lion bounded into the road. With one blow of his paw he sent the Scarecrow spinning over and over to the edge of the road, and then he struck at the Tin Woodman with his sharp claws. But, to the Lion’s surprise, he could make no impression on the tin, although the Woodman fell over in the road and lay still.
Little Toto, now that he had an enemy to face, ran barking toward the Lion, and the great beast had opened his mouth to bite the dog, when Dorothy, fearing Toto would be killed, and heedless of danger, rushed forward and slapped the Lion upon his nose as hard as she could, while she cried out:
“Don’t you dare to bite Toto! You ought to be ashamed of yourself, a big beast like you, to bite a poor little dog!”
“I didn’t bite him,” said the Lion, as he rubbed his nose with his paw where Dorothy had hit it.
“No, but you tried to,” she retorted. “You are nothing but a big coward.”
“I know it,” said the Lion, hanging his head in shame. “I’ve always known it. But how can I help it?”
Task
Despite his initial aggressive actions, what textual evidence in this passage suggests that the Lion is not inherently evil or malicious, but perhaps insecure or misunderstood?
💡 Writing Tips
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To infer character, look beyond surface actions. Focus on the Lion's reactions, dialogue, and body language after Dorothy confronts him. How does he respond to being challenged? What words does he use to describe himself? Consider subtle details that might reveal a different side to his character than his initial intimidating entrance.
📝 Sample Answer
Several pieces of textual evidence suggest the Lion is not inherently evil or malicious. Firstly, the narrator states, 'to the Lion’s surprise, he could make no impression on the tin' when attacking the Tin Woodman. This indicates he was perhaps not intent on severe harm, or was at least surprised by the lack of effect, rather than brutally determined. More tellingly, after Dorothy scolds him, he doesn't retaliate but rather 'rubbed his nose with his paw where Dorothy had hit it,' showing a submissive and pained reaction rather than renewed aggression. Most importantly, his dialogue—'I didn’t bite him,' and his immediate, shame-filled confession, 'I know it,' along with 'hanging his head in shame'—reveals a deep self-awareness and remorse. He even questions, 'But how can I help it?', indicating he struggles with his nature. These reactions paint a picture of a creature that might act aggressive out of habit or insecurity, rather than true malice.
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