In the universe of Elden Ring, the concept of eyes serves as a profound symbol of identity and divine influence, particularly in relation to the character of Marika and her celestial connections. As a prominent envoy of Outer Gods, her character is intricately tied to various ocular motifs throughout the game, warranting a closer examination of their significance.
Ubiquitous Ocular Themes in Elden Ring
Exploring Ocular Symbolism
To understand the role of eyes within Elden Ring, it’s essential to pinpoint significant examples in the base game. Players can alter their character’s appearance, particularly their eyes, through allegiances with various divine entities. For instance, the closed eyes of characters like Melina and Ranni, the flaming eye adorning the Fire Giant’s torso, the blue eyes of the Fallingstar Beasts, and talismans resembling eyeballs, such as the Sore Seal and Scarseal, all highlight the recurring ocular theme. Given that Marika and Radagon are essentially one entity, these talismans directly reflect her influence.
The absence of the “golden grace”around the irises of the Tarnished signifies a disconnection from Marika and the Greater Will. While non-Tarnished NPCs possess golden-hued eyes, the Tarnished, devoid of this mark, are seen as outcasts in the Lands Between. In this context, golden eyes symbolize a binding connection to divine presence, contrasting sharply with the situation of the Tarnished.
Transformations such as dragon communion or the embrace of a Bloody Finger visually represent a deviation from the Greater Will, suggesting that identity in Elden Ring is deeply tied to the symbolism of the eyes. Characters like Yura articulate this transformation as a loss of humanity, accentuating the importance of ocular imagery.
Additionally, the recently introduced DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, features items that function as lenses, manipulating the flow of Grace either to deny or confer it. These artifacts can significantly affect key NPCs, influencing their storylines. Furthermore, Messmer, a principal antagonist and offspring of Marika, has his formidable powers sealed behind an artificial eye, symbolizing the connection between vision and power.
The Secretive Nature of Marika
Light and Darkness as Divine Tools
A central theme surrounding these numerous eyes lies in their role as conduits of the Outer Gods’ influence. The blazing eye on the Fire Giant signifies the Fell God’s watchfulness and their empowerment of followers. Similarly, the cosmic affiliations of Astel and the Fallingstar Beasts are mirrored in their respective ocular features, while Melina and Ranni’s closed eyes suggest a connection between their destinies, especially since one is an Empyrean. As Marika herself serves as an emissary for the Outer Will, she manipulates these symbols to empower her followers while concealing deeper truths.
Both Marika and Radagon bear seals representing their divine duties. The scar and soreseal versions illustrate an inevitable degradation as the weight of their responsibilities bears down on them. Furthermore, in the context of identity within Elden Ring, the act of replacing an eye with a seal may symbolize the loss of personal identity, transforming individuals into mere instruments of the Greater Will—a process that exacts a toll on the mind and soul.
Marika’s cryptic nature serves a purpose: to obscure her past and maintain a facade over the Lands Between, directing attention towards the god that controls them while keeping their gaze averted from the hidden truths surrounding them.
In contrast, these seals might also function as barriers against doubt and the influence of rival deities. For instance, Messmer’s seal serves to constrain a serpent lurking within him—perhaps representing his internal conflict regarding the path established by Marika. This seal acts as a deterrent against self-doubt, highlighting how the brilliance of Grace also serves as a snare, preventing Marika’s followers from contemplating alternate paths.
Elden Ring’s Frenzied Flame as Marika’s Twisted Reflection
Eye Symbolism in a Different Context
One notable omission from previous discussions of eye symbolism pertains to the Shabriri Grapes, which serve as catalysts for embracing the Frenzied Flame. This chaotic force, epitomized by the Three Fingers, stands opposed to Marika’s vision of order and divinity.The Frenzied Flame seeks to dismantle structures in favor of a liberated existence devoid of pain or societal constraints. The Three Fingers encapsulate this duality, acting as both liberators and oppressors, closely mirroring Marika’s intentions.
Both factions employ strategies of persuasion, leading their followers to embrace ideologies that ultimately serve their own agendas.Eyes are employed as instruments of both guidance and misdirection, directing worshippers away from the inherent threats posed by these deities. While they purport to desire peace or autonomy, their ultimate goal is and remains control. In the universe of Elden Ring, the symbolism of eyes transcends traditional interpretations of sight and truth, encapsulating themes of deception and masked identities—the very foundation of the narratives woven by these powerful beings.
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