Why is Ciri Wearing Makeup? Exploring the Complex Reasons Behind the Witcher’s Changed Appearance
The question of Ciri’s makeup in The Witcher, particularly in the Netflix series, is multifaceted. There isn’t one simple answer, as it stems from a blend of character development, practical concerns of the adaptation, and even subtle nods to the source material. In short, Ciri wears makeup for a combination of reasons that include: character expression and emulating role models, masking identity while on the run, the natural maturation of the actress Freya Allan, replicating the “Witcher look,” and even showcasing her journey and internal growth. It’s a deliberate choice with layers of meaning woven into it.
Ciri’s Evolving Look: More Than Just Surface Deep
Ciri’s appearance throughout the series is a visual representation of her journey. Initially, she’s a princess, sheltered and innocent. As she’s forced to flee Cintra, her appearance becomes more survivalist-driven. Later, as she trains with Geralt and Yennefer, her look evolves again, reflecting her immersion in a new world and her attempt to define herself within it.
Mimicking Role Models: Yennefer and Triss
One aspect of Ciri’s makeup ties back to her adoptive mother figures, Yennefer and Triss. The article excerpts mention that in the books, either Yennefer or Triss taught Ciri about makeup. This isn’t just about vanity; it’s about learning from and emulating the powerful women in her life. It suggests a desire to connect with them, to understand their strength and allure. This emulation is a common theme for young people finding their identity and reflects the influence of positive role models on Ciri’s development.
Disguise and Anonymity
The excerpts also point out the practical reason for a changed appearance: disguise. After the fall of Cintra, Ciri needed to blend in and avoid detection. Makeup, even rudimentary soot applied around the eyes, could help alter her appearance and make her less recognizable as the Lion Cub of Cintra. This aspect highlights her resourcefulness and adaptability in a harsh and unforgiving world. It’s not just about looking pretty; it’s about survival.
Actress Freya Allan’s Maturation
A significant, albeit less romantic, reason is the natural aging of actress Freya Allan. The gap between filming seasons one and two was substantial, during which Allan matured from a teenager into a young adult. Makeup helps bridge that gap, allowing her to portray a Ciri who has grown physically and emotionally. The showrunners had to acknowledge and incorporate this real-world change into the character’s narrative.
The “Witcher Look” and Self-Expression
The text mentions Ciri claiming she applies makeup “purposely, because it gives her the witcher look.” This is a fascinating detail, suggesting that makeup isn’t just about mimicking others or hiding; it’s about self-expression and embracing her newfound identity as a Witcher in training. The “Witcher look” isn’t explicitly defined, but we can assume it refers to a more hardened, perhaps even slightly intimidating appearance, contrasting with her initial innocence.
Showcasing Internal Growth and Trauma
Finally, Ciri’s makeup, or lack thereof at certain times, can symbolize her internal state. The scar on her face is a constant reminder of her trauma, and the way she chooses to conceal or reveal it speaks volumes. Similarly, her use of makeup can reflect her confidence, vulnerability, and the complex emotions she experiences throughout her journey. Her journey throughout the series is not just an external quest to figure out where she belongs, but an internal discovery of self.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ciri’s Appearance
Here are some frequently asked questions about Ciri’s appearance, drawn from the provided text and expanded upon with expert insight:
1. Why did they put so much makeup on Ciri in Season 2?
The “much makeup” observation is subjective, but it stems from the combination of Freya Allan’s natural maturation and the deliberate choice to portray Ciri as embracing a new identity, influenced by Yennefer and Triss, and even attempting a rough approximation of a “Witcher look.”
2. What happened to Ciri’s face?
Ciri has a distinct scar on her left eye, a permanent reminder of a dangerous encounter. In the books, the scar is inflicted by a Nilfgaardian agent. This scar has its origins steeped in the books, being inflicted as a result of a ranged attack by a Nilfgaardian agent named Stefan Skellen. The agent was tasked with capturing Ciri alive… regardless of the means.
3. Why does Ciri have black around her eyes?
In the initial stages of her journey, Ciri used primitive methods to disguise herself. The text mentions her using goose fat and soot to darken her eyes, extending the lines to her temples and ears. This was a practical measure for hiding her identity and looking less like a princess.
4. Why is Ciri’s blood so special?
Ciri possesses Elder Blood, a genetic trait that grants her access to immense magical power. This lineage traces back to Lara Dorren, a powerful Elven sorceress. Her Elder Blood is the reason she is so highly sought after by various factions.
5. Why was Ciri’s hair turning white?
Ciri’s hair is naturally ashen, but the text indicates it turned gray or white due to trauma. This is reminiscent of Marie Antoinette Syndrome, where extreme stress can cause hair to lose its pigmentation. The Saga, the collection of Witcher books, showcases Ciri’s hair whitening.
6. Who takes over Ciri’s body?
The demon Voleth Meir, also known as the Deathless Mother, possesses Ciri’s body after feeding on the agony of others. This possession highlights the immense power Ciri wields and the dangers she faces.
7. Who is Ciri’s love interest?
Ciri is bisexual. She has a romantic relationship with Mistle, a member of the outlaw gang “The Rats.” She also expresses interest in Ser Galahad in Lady of the Lake. Her sexuality is part of her character’s complex identity.
8. How bad is Ciri’s scar?
The severity of Ciri’s scar is subjective, but the excerpt suggests it disfigures her face. This physical imperfection impacts her self-perception, and she uses her bangs to try and conceal it.
9. Why does Ciri wear mascara?
While the term “mascara” might be anachronistic, the text indicates that Ciri deliberately applies makeup to achieve the “Witcher look.” This implies a desire to project strength and confidence.
10. Does Ciri prefer girls?
The provided information states Ciri is definitively bisexual, as one of the articles included states: In truth, Ciri is definitively bisexual. Her first and only consensual sexual relationship is with a female, and she’s been attracted to men in the books, too. In the games, that’s carried over. Because the label is often used incorrectly. She has relationships with both women and men in the source material. Her first and only consensual sexual relationship is with a female, and she’s been attracted to men in the books, too. In the games, that’s carried over. Because the label is often used incorrectly.
11. Why did Ciri’s eyes bleed?
Ciri’s eyes bleeding is a side effect of using powerful magic. It signifies her struggles to control and understand her abilities, often requiring assistance from Yennefer to help realize and tap into her powers, as eye bleeding is often a side-effect of magic use.
12. Is Ciri LGBT?
Yes, Ciri is part of the LGBT community as she identifies as bisexual. Her first and only consensual sexual relationship is with a female, and she’s been attracted to men in the books, too. In the games, that’s carried over. Because the label is often used incorrectly.
13. Why does Emhyr marry Ciri?
Emhyr’s reasons for wanting to marry Ciri are complex and sinister. He is motivated by a prophecy that their offspring would rule the world. His actions are driven by a desire for power and a twisted interpretation of destiny.
14. Why does the Deathless Mother want Ciri?
The Deathless Mother seeks Ciri to exploit her immense power. She either wants to be freed from her prison or to cause another Conjunction that would open a way back to the demon’s original plane of existence.
15. Is Emhyr really Ciri’s father?
Yes, Emhyr is Ciri’s biological father. This revelation is a major plot point in The Witcher series and adds another layer of complexity to their relationship.
In conclusion, Ciri’s evolving appearance, including her use of makeup, is a carefully considered aspect of her character arc. It reflects her journey from a sheltered princess to a resilient survivor, her relationships with powerful female figures, and her growing acceptance of her destiny. It is not solely about aesthetics but also about storytelling, a reflection of character development.
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