Summary
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtreecomes with a ton of new lore information, and that’s been used to fuel new theories about characters and events from both the Land of Shadows and the Lands Between. Since Marika was a key figure in shaping the physical and political landscape of these locations, it’s not surprising that a portion of the new lore that was added with the DLC is related to her. However, it’s interesting that learning about Marika’s background makes her an incredibly tragic person, especially if one of the latest theories about her is true.
Like most characters inElden Ring, Marika is complex with motivations that start to make more sense as the Tarnished continues learning about her past in both the base game and DLC. Since part ofShadow of the Erdtreeinvolves visitingMarika’s hometown and learning about the tragic fatethat befell her people, a new theory formed that ties into Marika’s ascension to godhood and the betrayal she’s mentioned to have committed in the Land of Shadow. If true, then this theory adds a new layer to Marika’s already tragic history.
Elden Ring: Shadow Of The Erdtree’s Most Important Character Isn’t Even In The Story
The most important NPC for your journey in Shadow of the Erdtree isn’t part of the DLC’s story at all and won’t be found in the Land of Shadow.
Marika May Have Been The Only Successful Jar Saint
Which Would Earn Her The Devotion Of The Hornsent
The Tarnished learns a few key pieces of information in the Land of Shadow that build the foundation of this theory. Marika is a shaman and used to live in Shaman Village, the path to which is blocked byMessmer the Impaler. Additionally, the flesh of a shaman blends well with the flesh of others, sotheHornsentshoved them into jars in an attempt to create Jar Saints, possibly because they worship the Crucible, which is referred to as a blend of all life. However, there doesn’t seem to be a confirmed Jar Saint that was successful, even though Alexander at least has sentience as a jar.
Wait, Where Did Miquella’s Body Come From In Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree?
If Miquella’s original body is in the cocoon Mohg took, then how does he have a physical body in the Land of Shadow in Shadow of the Erdtree?
Contradicting the belief that a Jar Saint wasn’t created is a theory that suggestsMarika could have been the only successful case of a perfect Jar Saint, making her the result that the Hornsent wanted. Since it seems that Marika may have had help from the Hornsent to ascend to godhood before betraying them, this would provide an explanation as to why they’d be willing to help her. Another feature that’s used to support this theory is that Marika was able to become a god using the Gate of Divinity that seems to have been created by the Hornsent, yet that doesn’t explain why Miquella could as well.
Being A Jar Saint Would Make Marika Even More Tragic
But It Could Explain The Curses Of Her Children
Since Marika already had to witness the torture her people underwent as theHornsenttried to create Jar Saints, becoming one herself could result in survivor’s guilt and explain her extreme hatred towards the Hornsent. While it’s an interesting theory, it’s impossible to confirm or deny it is true with the limited information given inShadow of the Erdtree. Additionally, there are problems with the theory, such as Miquella being able to ascend without being a Jar Saint, andno evidence as to what a successful Jar Saint would be likein terms of appearance, abilities, or even personality.
Elden Ring: Shadow Of The Erdtree’s Final Boss Is Full Of Wasted Potential
Shadow of the Erdtree has one of Elden Ring’s coolest bosses as its final enemy in concept, but in practice there is a lot left to be desired.
However, that could bea reason as to why so many of Marika’s children ended up cursed, with two of them even being born as Omen. First, having been meshed with the flesh of others could then affect her children since it would probably have genetic consequences. Second, various Outer Gods could’ve cursed her children due to her being a Jar Saint as punishment for trying to create something divine, which is sometimes seen as an offense to deities. Unfortunately, there’s simply not enough evidence to say this is the case with certainty, and there are other plausible theories as to why most of the demigods are cursed.
Although it’s a fascinating theory, there’s not enough information available to conclude that Marika is a Jar Saint, or that she was tormented by the Hornsent the way that other people from her village were. However, it would add a new layer of tragedy to a character that becomes increasingly tragic the more the Tarnished learns about her. She may not have made the best choices while working towards godhood or after ascending, but she often did what she thought was best, as misguided as it may have been inElden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree.
