EMERALD CITY Meaning and
Definition
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Emerald City refers to a fictional place that gained popularity through L. Frank Baum's classic children's book titled "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" and further popularized by its adaptation in film and theater. It represents the extravagant capital city of the magical Land of Oz. The name "Emerald City" is derived from the city's primary distinguishing feature, which is its breathtakingly vibrant and gleaming emerald-green buildings.
In the Land of Oz, Emerald City acts as the administrative, political, and cultural center of the land. It is known for its opulence and magnificence, surrounded by grand gardens and manicured emerald-green lawns. The magnificent Emerald Palace, situated at the heart of the city, houses the ruling power of the realm, represented by the Great and Powerful Oz.
Symbolically, the term "Emerald City" often denotes an idealized and seemingly perfect place. It is characterized by deception and illusion, as the city appears to be shimmering and splendid from a distance but is later revealed to be an illusion generated by the wizard using green-tinted eyeglasses. This symbolism highlights how appearances can be deceiving and reflects the concept of seeking something better, only to discover that true contentment lies elsewhere.
Today, the term "Emerald City" is often used metaphorically to describe a hypothetical, idealized urban setting, especially one filled with prosperity, luxury, or beauty. It serves as a representation of an enchanting place that captivates people's imagination, evoking visions of awe-inspiring richness and perfection.
Etymology of EMERALD CITY
The word "emerald city" originates from the book "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum, published in 1900. In the story, the Emerald City is a grand and majestic city made entirely of green-colored emeralds, brilliantly shining in the sun. The word "emerald" refers to the gemstone, which is known for its rich green color. The choice of "emerald" likely denotes the city's opulence and magnificence, as well as its association with the land of Oz. The popularity of Baum's book led to the term "Emerald City" becoming embedded in popular culture as a symbol of a fantastical, awe-inspiring place.
