The Cowardly Lion's Self-Doubt and Friendship

The Lion struggles with his own cowardice, but through friendship and facing danger, he learns that true courage is acting despite fear.

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The Lion's Confession

A King's Shame The First Meeting The Lion roars and attacks, but is stopped by Dorothy's slap. He admits he is a coward. He is ashamed of his fear. The Burden of Kingship He says he is supposed to be the King of Beasts, but he is afraid. He roars to scare others, but he knows he is a coward. It makes him unhappy. The Friends' Support Dorothy and the others do not mock him. They accept him and offer to help him find courage. He joins them, grateful for their friendship.

Facing Danger Together

Acts of Courage The Kalidahs The Lion faces the Kalidahs, even though he is terrified. He roars and stands his ground. He helps the group escape. The River The Lion swims to shore and pulls the raft, saving the group. He does not run away from the current. The Witch's Castle The Lion defies the Witch, refusing to be harnessed. He threatens to bite her. He shows that he will not submit, even when imprisoned. The Friends' Influence Dorothy's friendship and the others' encouragement give him the strength to act. He learns that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act in spite of it.

The Battle with the Spider

The Lion's Triumph The Challenge The Lion volunteers to kill the giant spider monster. He is afraid, but he knows he must do it. The Attack He finds the spider asleep. He leaps on its back and knocks its head off with one blow. He is victorious. The King of Beasts The animals bow to him. He has earned the title. He promises to return to rule. He is no longer a coward. He has found his courage through action and friendship.

In the forest

Throughout the journey

On the journey to the South