Dorothy's Longing for Aunt Em and Uncle Henry

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Throughout her adventures, Dorothy's love for her aunt and uncle and her desire to return home drive her actions.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Gray Home in KansasThe Gray Home in Kansas
A Home of Love The Plain Home Dorothy lives with Uncle Henry and Aunt Em in a small, gray house on the Kansas prairie. The environment is harsh, but it is her home. The Family Uncle Henry is a stern, silent farmer. Aunt Em is thin and gaunt, and she never smiles. But Dorothy knows they love her. She is an orphan, and they took her in. The Attachment Despite the grayness, Dorothy loves her family. She helps with chores and plays with Toto. She does not want to leave them.
The First Tears in OzThe First Tears in Oz
Homesickness The Reality of Oz Dorothy is amazed by the beauty of Oz, but she quickly becomes homesick. She asks the Munchkins and the Witch of the North how to get back to Kansas. The Sobbing When told she cannot go back easily, Dorothy begins to sob. The Munchkins also weep. The Witch of the North tries to console her. The Quest to Oz The Witch suggests she go to the Emerald City to see Oz. Dorothy agrees, hoping Oz can send her home. Her longing for home is the main motivation for her journey.
The Promise of ReturnThe Promise of Return
Hope and Despair The Task to Kill the Witch Oz promises to send Dorothy home if she kills the Wicked Witch of the West. She is terrified but agrees. She thinks of Aunt Em and Uncle Henry. The Captivity In the Witch's castle, Dorothy often cries bitterly, thinking of Kansas. She wonders if she will ever see her aunt and uncle again. The Final Hope After the Witch is dead, Dorothy hopes Oz will keep his promise. When he fails, she is heartbroken. But she never gives up her desire to return home.
The ReturnThe Return
Home at Last The Dream Come True Dorothy clicks the Silver Shoes and says, 'Take me home to Aunt Em!' She is instantly transported to Kansas. She sees Aunt Em watering cabbages. The Reunion Aunt Em cries, 'My darling child!' and hugs her. Dorothy is home. She is overjoyed to be with her family again. The Lesson Dorothy has learned that there is no place like home. Her love for her aunt and uncle guided her through all her adventures. She is finally where she belongs.
Before the cyclone
After the cyclone
Throughout the journey
At the end