does glinda know elphaba is alive

In the stage musical and the recent film adaptation, Wicked: For Good, the general conclusion is that Glinda does NOT know for sure that Elphaba is alive, but it’s left ambiguous with a hint of hope.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

• The Secret Plan: Elphaba’s ‘death’ is faked as a desperate measure. She and Fiyero (who is transformed into the Scarecrow) plan to escape Oz and live together secretly. In the musical, Fiyero insists that Glinda can never know the truth, as it would put her in danger.

• Glinda’s Belief: Glinda sees the illusion of Elphaba melting by water (though she knows water shouldn’t kill her) and believes her friend is gone, leading to her genuine devastation and desire to honor Elphaba’s legacy by doing good.

• The Ambiguity (Especially in the Film): The movie Wicked: For Good adds a subtle layer of ambiguity with the Grimmerie (the magical spellbook) opening for Glinda at the very end.

  • Some interpret this as Elphaba sending a clever, secret sign to Glinda that she is alive and okay.

  • Others see it as the Grimmerie recognizing Glinda’s true goodness and her readiness to use magic for the right cause, regardless of Elphaba’s status.

  • Actress Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) has commented that she believes Glinda is aware Elphaba had something to do with the Grimmerie opening, but doesn’t know for certain that Elphaba is alive.

In summary, Glinda believes she has lost her friend, but the final scene gives her (and the audience) a flicker of hope that the person who changed her life “for good” is safe.