The Corruption of Absolute Power

Wicked

Examines how power corrupts characters like the Wizard, Nessarose, and even Elphaba, and the consequences of unchecked authority.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

The Wizard's Rise The Wizard's Rise from "Wicked". The Wizard's Rise A Charismatic Leader The Wizard arrives in Oz and quickly seizes power. He promises progress and stability.

The Wizard's Rise from "Wicked". The Wizard's Rise A Charismatic Leader The Wizard arrives in Oz and quickly seizes power. He promises progress and stability.

The Wizard's Rise A Charismatic Leader The Wizard arrives in Oz and quickly seizes power. He promises progress and stability. Absolute Rule He dissolves democratic institutions and rules by decree. He creates a secret police force. The Corruption Begins His desire for power leads him to oppress minorities and suppress dissent. He becomes a tyrant.

Nessarose's Tyranny Nessarose's Tyranny from "Wicked". Nessarose's Tyranny Inherited Power Nessarose inherits the title of Eminent Thropp. She uses her power to impose her religious beliefs.

Nessarose's Tyranny from "Wicked". Nessarose's Tyranny Inherited Power Nessarose inherits the title of Eminent Thropp. She uses her power to impose her religious beliefs.

Nessarose's Tyranny Inherited Power Nessarose inherits the title of Eminent Thropp. She uses her power to impose her religious beliefs. Abuse of Authority She persecutes those who disagree with her. She trades Animals for magical favors. The Cost of Power Her tyranny alienates her subjects and leads to her downfall. Power corrupts her completely.

Madame Morrible's Manipulation

Madame Morrible's Manipulation A Power Behind the Throne Madame Morrible uses her position as headmistress to recruit young women for the Wizard's secret service. Murder and Intrigue She orders the murder of Doctor Dillamond to protect the Wizard's interests. The Corruption of Education She corrupts the purpose of education, turning it into a tool for political control.

Elphaba's Temptation Elphaba's Temptation from "Wicked". Elphaba's Temptation The Grimmerie's Power The Grimmerie offers immense magical power. Elphaba uses it to create creatures and defend herself.

Elphaba's Temptation from "Wicked". Elphaba's Temptation The Grimmerie's Power The Grimmerie offers immense magical power. Elphaba uses it to create creatures and defend herself.

Elphaba's Temptation The Grimmerie's Power The Grimmerie offers immense magical power. Elphaba uses it to create creatures and defend herself. The Risk of Corruption She fears becoming like the Wizard. She tries to use the power responsibly, but it changes her. Embracing the Witch Identity She accepts the title of "Wicked Witch" as a form of power. It gives her agency but also isolates her.

The Fall of Tyrants The Fall of Tyrants from "Wicked". The Fall of Tyrants The Wizard's Flight The Wizard flees Oz when his power is threatened. He leaves behind a legacy of oppression.

The Fall of Tyrants from "Wicked". The Fall of Tyrants The Wizard's Flight The Wizard flees Oz when his power is threatened. He leaves behind a legacy of oppression.

The Fall of Tyrants The Wizard's Flight The Wizard flees Oz when his power is threatened. He leaves behind a legacy of oppression. Nessarose's Death Nessarose is killed by a random accident. Her power ends abruptly. Elphaba's Death Elphaba dies at the hands of a child. Her power is ultimately meaningless. A Cautionary Tale The novel suggests that absolute power corrupts and that all tyrants eventually fall.

forty years before the main story

during her rule

throughout her career

during her use of the Grimmerie

near the end of the story