In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the publication of The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, Clemson University faculty specialists in children's literature, film and art will explore the unique qualities of one of America's favorite stories. Activities will include a screening of the film and discussions about the wizard and witches that appear in the book, says Lucy Rollin, a Clemson English professor who is organizing the celebration. Other events will include a historical review of the book and its author and a musical presentation.
All events are free and open to the public.
In response to the traditional European fairy tales, which emphasized violence and magic, L. Frank Baum published The Wizard of Oz in 1900. Among those attributes were teamwork, neighborliness and common sense. Creating a story with a girl as its central character was also important for Baum, adds Rollin. Upon publication, Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow and Toto were instantly popular. A dramatic adaptation was soon created to bring the characters to the stage.