The theory of Glinda going evil makes a frightening amount of sense, but it’s fair to question some of the logistics of her plan. Perhaps the most pressing problem is that her plan hinges on a 16-year-old girl being able to make a long, treacherous journey to the Emerald City and eventually defeat a powerful witch with an army of servants and flying monkeys. But as it turns out a simple gesture from Glinda may have been the final key to ensuring her plan went through without a hitch.
In the 1900 children’s novel that the film is based on, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” as Dorothy prepares to leave for the Emerald City, the Good Witch of the North kisses her forehead, leaving a protective mark that prevents harm from coming to the Kansas native. The film makes it seem that the shoes alone are what will keep Dorothy safe, with Glinda saying, “And remember, never let those ruby slippers off your feet for a moment or you will be at the mercy of the Wicked Witch of the West.” However, directly after this statement is made, she kisses Dorothy’s forehead. While more than likely serving as a clever nod to the original text, it can also be seen narratively as the final piece of Glinda’s puzzle to ensure her pawn fulfills her mission.
