Moses and Ramses: The Role of Wigs in ‘The Prince of Egypt’

In the animated film The Prince of Egypt, one of the more curious but also meaningful elements involves the distinct hairstyles of the titular characters, Moses and Ramses. This article delves into the cultural, aesthetic, and thematic reasons behind these differences. By examining the context in which wigs were worn in ancient Egyptian culture and the creative choices made by the filmmakers, we can gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their stories.

Cultural Context: Egyptian Royalty and Wigs

In ancient Egyptian culture, wigs were not merely a fashion statement. They were a symbol of status and wealth, worn by the elite, including pharaohs and nobility. These wigs were often made from human hair or plant fibers and provided protection from the sun in the hot climate. For pharaohs, wigs were also a way to present a curated image of their authority and power.

Moses' Background: From Hebrew to Egyptian Prince

Moses was raised in the Egyptian royal household but was of Hebrew descent. This dual heritage is a significant element in his character. Moses' depiction with a wig emphasizes his initial acceptance of the royal lifestyle. His wig serves as a visual reminder of his upbringing among the Egyptians, despite his Hebrew roots. This detail underlines Moses' complex identity, caught between two worlds and facing the challenge of reconciling his cultural and familial heritage.

Ramses: Pharaoh and Authority Embodied

Ramses, as the reigning pharaoh, is portrayed in a more traditional royal manner. Unlike Moses, Ramses is typically depicted without a wig. This absence of a wig symbolizes his direct embodiment of pharaonic authority and power. Historical representations of pharaohs often show them wearing crowns or headdresses, rather than wigs. Ramses' appearance reinforces his position as a figure of unyielding authority and tradition.

Aesthetic Considerations: Character Design and Visual Symbolism

From a creative standpoint, the filmmakers used visual cues to distinguish between the characters. Moses' wig is a clear indicator of his dual identity as both an Egyptian prince and a Hebrew. It highlights his journey of self-discovery and the challenges he faces in reconciling his two worlds. Meanwhile, Ramses' straightforward appearance as a pharaoh emphasizes his role as the antagonist and a figure of unwavering authority.

The contrast in hairstyles between the two characters serves as a powerful visual representation of their different paths and decisions. Moses’ journey from a seemingly Egyptian life to his eventual realization of his true heritage is symbolized through the wig. Ramses, ever the pharaoh, remains steeped in tradition and authority, his appearance reflecting his unwavering commitment to his role and the status quo.

Conclusion: Cultural Reasons and Filmmaker Intentions

While there are cultural reasons rooted in ancient Egyptian practices for the use of wigs, the aesthetic choices made by the filmmakers also play a significant role in character differentiation and thematic representation. The choice to depict Moses with a wig and Ramses without it enhances the narrative's exploration of identity, tradition, and the challenges of embracing one's true heritage.

In summary, the wigs in The Prince of Egypt are more than just a stylistic choice; they serve as a rich layer of visual storytelling, enhancing the cultural and thematic depth of the characters and their journeys.