video game symbolism Archives

Elden Ring, developed by FromSoftware, has captivated gamers not only through its challenging gameplay but also through its deep, intricate lore. Among the game's enigmatic characters, Goldmask stands out for his quest tied to the Erdtree and the Age of Perfect Order. With the release of the DLC "Shadow of the Erdtree," another character, Midra, emerges, bearing striking resemblances to Goldmask. This connection has sparked considerable interest and theories among the game's community, notably discussed by YouTuber Quelaag. Goldmask and the Age of Perfect Order Goldmask is encountered as a silent, contemplative figure adorned with a sunflower emblem, symbolizing his deep connection to the Erdtree and his pursuit of understanding the cosmos's divine order. His journey through the game reveals his disillusionment with the gods and his proposal to usher in a new era — the Age of Perfect Order. This philosophical and theological pursuit sets a profound backdrop for his character, making him a pivotal figure in understanding the game's deeper meanings. Midra: The Lord of Frenzied Flame https://twitter.com/xIngenue/status/1815869553030881754?ref_srctwsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1815869553030881754%7Ctwgr%5Ee1181e024fa05ed008e3af8a55907911fa3cb3f6%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_urlhttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegamer.com%2Felden-ring-fans-think-midra-is-goldmasks-opposite%2F Introduced in the latest DLC, Midra presents an almost mirror image to Goldmask, yet his affiliations lie with the chaotic and destructive powers of the Frenzied Flame. Located in a dark, secluded area of the Abyssal Woods, Midra's story unfolds as one of torment and struggle, unable to contain the power of an outer god, leading to his tragic demise. This storyline enriches the game's lore, offering a counterpart to Goldmask's order and stability. Symbolic Parallels and Lore Connections The comparison between Midra and Goldmask extends beyond visual similarities and into the thematic elements of their respective stories. Both characters are depicted with significant eye symbolism, a recurring motif in FromSoftware's titles, which often alludes to a higher insight or madness, as seen in Bloodborne. The sunflower and lumen flowers, respectively, represent their connection to higher truths, albeit in vastly different contexts — one seeking order and the other succumbing to chaos. Theoretical Interpretations by Quelaag Quelaag’s analysis provides a compelling interpretation of these characters as two sides of the same coin, both serving as ascetic monks who delve into the metaphysical and cosmic significances of their world's phenomena. Their stories reflect the dual nature of insight — the enlightenment and the madness it can bring. This duality is a profound commentary on the pursuit of knowledge and power within the Elden Ring universe. Final Thoughts The nuanced portrayal of Goldmask and Midra in Elden Ring offers players more than just gameplay; it invites them into a rich tapestry of symbolism and lore that begs for deeper exploration. As players dissect these connections and expand upon the lore, the narrative universe of Elden Ring grows ever more compelling, cementing its place as a masterpiece of storytelling in video games. Also Read:

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video game symbolism

Elden Ring Lore Explored: Midra as Goldmask’s Counterpart Unveiled