Interpretation of wizard of oz symbolism

The Wizard of Oz, a classic American fantasy novel written by L. Frank Baum, is rich in symbolism and allegory.
One of the most prominent symbols in the story is the Yellow Brick Road, which represents the journey towards one's goals and the idea that the destination is not as important as the journey itself. The road is also seen as a symbol of hope, as it leads the main characters to the Wizard, who they believe will help them achieve their individual desires.
The Wizard of Oz himself is a symbol of the power of illusion, as he is revealed to be a mere mortal who uses trickery to maintain his power. He is also seen as a symbol of the American political system, as he is a representative of a powerful and distant authority who is not what he seems.
The character of the Scarecrow can be seen as a symbol of the human desire for intelligence and knowledge, while the Tin Man represents the human desire for a heart and the ability to feel emotion. The Cowardly Lion symbolizes the human desire for courage.
The land of Oz itself is a symbol of the American dream and the idea of a perfect, utopian society. The story also touches on themes of home, family, and friendship.
Overall, The Wizard of Oz is a story that uses the fantasy genre to explore deeper and more complex themes, such as the nature of power, the longing for self-improvement, and the search for one's place in the world.