The Monkeys wound many coils about his body 1900

William Wallace Denslow created this illustration for "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz". Published in 1900, it reflects the anxieties and aspirations of its time. Denslow's image captures a pivotal moment: Dorothy's encounter with the Cowardly Lion, subdued by winged monkeys. But what does it mean to depict a lion – traditionally a symbol of courage and royalty – in a state of captivity? The Lion's bondage could be seen as a metaphor for the constraints placed upon individuals by societal expectations and the struggle to overcome inner fears. Dorothy, a young girl, stands before the lion, an implicit commentary on power dynamics, vulnerability, and the potential for empathy to bridge divides. Denslow's illustrations broke from traditional children's book imagery, mirroring the era's shift toward a more modern, visually engaging storytelling. He encourages us to reflect on the multifaceted nature of identity, courage, and the quest for self-discovery, reminding us that appearances can be deceiving.