The Cowardly 1900

This is William Wallace Denslow's illustration “The Cowardly” for the first edition of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Denslow's illustrations played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of the Oz series. Published in 1900, the book captured the growing anxieties of a rapidly industrializing America. With its roots in American folklore and fairy tales, Denslow's art embodies the spirit of the Midwest and the changing perception of the American landscape. We see Dorothy, an archetypal young girl, and her companions entering a forest. A symbol for the unknown, which historically, has been a place of danger and transformation. This illustration reflects the era's fascination with utopian ideals and the search for community. The Cowardly Lion, Tin Man, and Scarecrow find courage, heart, and intelligence in themselves, highlighting that true value comes from within. In Denslow's illustrations, the journey through Oz mirrors the journey of self-discovery and the power of imagination.