KF451

2018

Movies and TV

The Tin Man is a fictional character most famously known from L. Frank Baum's novel, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" (1900), and subsequent adaptations. His character, originally named Nick Chopper, was a human woodman who was cursed by the Wicked Witch of the East. Each time he swung his axe, he accidentally chopped off a part of his body.

A tinsmith replaced each missing limb and organ with tin prosthetics. Eventually, he was entirely made of tin and lost his heart in the process. He rusts easily and requires oil to move freely. He joins Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion on their journey to Oz, hoping the Wizard can give him a heart.

The Tin Man's portrayal varies across different media, but his core characteristics remain consistent: a longing for compassion and the ability to love. While lacking a physical heart, he demonstrates empathy and kindness throughout his adventures, often proving he possessed a heart all along. His character embodies the idea that compassion and love are not solely dependent on having a physical organ.