The upcoming Shadow of the Erdtree DLC for Elden Ring has introduced an intriguing new character named Messmer the Impaler. With little known about Messmer so far, fans have been speculating about his potential ties to existing lore and characters in the game. One prominent theory focuses on the snake motif in Messmer's design, which could symbolize heresy and rebellion against the Golden Order. This article will analyze the clues surrounding Messmer and how his snake imagery expands on themes of blasphemy in Elden Ring.
Highlights
- Messmer's snake design connects him to Rykard and themes of blasphemy
- He may be symbolic of rebellion against the Golden Order
- Messmer brings more mystery to Miquella's story
- His flames link him to forbidden sorceries
Messmer Evokes Rykard and Forbidden Sorceries
Although details are limited, fans have picked up on some telling similarities between Messmer and existing Elden Ring characters. His blood red hair and fiery powers are reminiscent of Rykard, a notorious blasphemer against the Erdtree. Messmer's copious snake imagery also mirrors Rykard, who took on a serpentine form. Furthermore, Messmer's dangerous flames parallel the prohibited sorceries of the Fire Giants. These connections paint Messmer as a potentially heretical figure who defies the Golden Order's conventions like Rykard and the giants did.
Snake Symbolism Reflects Rebellion and Blasphemy
The Elden Ring base game describes serpents as traitorous to the Erdtree, an association clearly embraced by Rykard. Messmer's serpent motif likely carries the same symbolic meaning, marking him as a rebel against the Erdtree's authority. Snakes have long been associated with deception and evil in mythological contexts as well, fitting Messmer's air of mystery. His snake features may not indicate a direct relationship to Rykard, but rather a shared theme of blasphemy and disregard for the Greater Will's Order. Messmer possibly originated the idea of snakes representing enemies of the Golden Order.
Obscure Origins in the Land of Shadow
Official descriptions mention Messmer burning the Land of Shadow, but his history there remains unclear. He may have been cast out and purged like other unwanted demigods before him. This would explain his apparent animosity toward the Erdtree that fuels his chaotic powers. The name "Land of Shadow" suggests the region exists outside the Golden Order's influence as well. Messmer's obscured origins in this land shrouded in shadow highlight his divergence from the Order's authority in the era of Elden Ring.
Potential Connections to Miquella's Lore
Besides thematic links to blasphemy, some speculate Messmer has direct ties to key characters like Miquella. His red hair and M name could signify he is another sibling, while his flames draw associations to Miquella's cursed blood. The cocoon in Mohg's lair resembling Messmer also supports this theory. However, these surface details could simply be misleading red herrings. Nonetheless, Messmer seems guaranteed to expand on Miquella's plotline in some way when the DLC releases.
An Enigmatic New Character
Messmer the Impaler remains shrouded in mystery, but the information available points to him representing themes of blasphemy and rebellion against the Golden Order. His connection to serpents likely reinforces this symbolism rather than indicating direct relations to other characters. While his origins are murky, Messmer appears to hail from the rebelling Land of Shadow just as his serpentine features mark him as rebelling against the Order. He will surely bring more cryptic lore with him when Elden Ring's most anticipated DLC finally arrives.
