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In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy’s ruby slippers (or silver shoes in L. Frank Baum’s original novel) carry a profound symbolism, tied both to her personal journey and to the broader themes of the story. These shoes are far more than a magical object—they represent inner power, protection, and the journey home to self-discovery.

Inner Power and Potential: The slippers symbolize the power that Dorothy unknowingly possesses within herself.

Throughout her journey, she seeks guidance and protection from others—the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, and even the Wizard—when, in reality, the key to returning home lies within her all along. Glinda the Good Witch eventually reveals that the ruby slippers have had the power to send Dorothy back to Kansas from the very beginning, underscoring that our greatest strengths often lie within us, waiting to be realized.

Protection and Guidance: The slippers act as a protective talisman.

When Dorothy wears them, the Wicked Witch of the West cannot harm her directly, as the shoes shield her from the Witch’s power.

This protection symbolizes how inner strength and self-belief serve as shields against negative forces in life. Dorothy’s innocence, goodness, and inherent strength prevent the Witch from seizing the slippers, highlighting the idea that virtue protects and guides us on life’s path.

The Journey Home and Self-Realization: On a metaphorical level, Dorothy’s journey through Oz is a quest for self-knowledge. The slippers represent the "home" she’s trying to find, not just in Kansas, but within herself.

When Glinda tells Dorothy that she always had the power to return home, it emphasizes that self-discovery and personal strength allow us to navigate life’s trials. The ruby slippers symbolize the journey of returning to one’s authentic self and finding peace within.

Breaking from Illusions: The Wizard of Oz as a whole presents many illusions—from the Wizard’s deceptive power to the identity of the Wicked Witch. Dorothy’s slippers, by contrast, represent an undeniable truth. While others try to manipulate or control, the slippers remain a steadfast symbol of pure, untapped potential.

They remind Dorothy, and us, that truth and power often reside beneath illusions, waiting to be recognized.

Color Symbolism: In the film, the slippers are famously red (ruby), which is a powerful color associated with life, vitality, and courage. This red hue contrasts with the dreary sepia tones of Kansas, suggesting the vibrancy of self-discovery and the courage required to embark on the journey.

The bold color makes Dorothy stand out, symbolizing that embracing one’s inner strength often requires standing apart and venturing beyond the familiar.

Freedom from External Validation: Finally, the slippers reveal the limitations of relying on external authority. Dorothy initially believes she needs the Wizard’s help to get home, placing her hopes in him as a figure of power and authority. However, the slippers teach her that true power doesn’t reside in external figures or symbols but is internal—a message about sovereignty, self-belief, and the realization that external forces are not the ultimate source of empowerment.

In short, Dorothy’s red shoes are more than just magical footwear—they symbolize a profound journey of self-empowerment, the importance of inner strength, and the realization that we often have within us the answers we seek. Just as Dorothy needed to trust in herself to find her way back, the slippers encourage all of us to look within for guidance and strength on our paths.

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APOCALYPSE ANONYMOUS by

ATOSHI ANARKOMOTO