Doctor Faustus

Definition

Doctor Faustus is a tragic play written by Christopher Marlowe that tells the story of a brilliant scholar who makes a pact with the devil in exchange for magical powers and knowledge. This work explores themes of ambition, desire for knowledge, and the consequences of hubris, making it a significant piece in the context of English Renaissance literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Doctor Faustus was first published in 1604 and is based on the German legend of Faust, which has inspired numerous adaptations across various forms of art.
2. The character of Faustus embodies the Renaissance ideal of seeking knowledge and pushing intellectual boundaries but ultimately faces tragic consequences for his actions.
3. Marlowe's use of blank verse in Doctor Faustus highlights his poetic style and adds to the emotional depth of the play.
4. The theme of the supernatural is central to Doctor Faustus, as Faustus invokes demonic forces and grapples with questions of morality and faith throughout the play.
5. The play reflects societal anxieties during the Renaissance about ambition and the pursuit of knowledge, illustrating the tension between enlightenment and moral decay.

Review Questions

• How does Doctor Faustus reflect the concept of hubris in its protagonist's character development?
  • In Doctor Faustus, hubris is evident in Faustus's overwhelming pride as he believes he can transcend human limitations through his pact with Lucifer. His desire for ultimate knowledge and power leads him to forsake his soul, showcasing a classic tragic flaw. This excessive self-confidence ultimately results in his downfall, emphasizing the dangers of overreaching ambition typical of tragic heroes in literature.
• Discuss how Marlowe’s portrayal of Faustus embodies Renaissance Humanism while also critiquing it.
  • Marlowe's Doctor Faustus presents a complex portrait of Renaissance Humanism by showcasing Faustus as an archetype of the Renaissance man who seeks knowledge and self-improvement. However, Marlowe also critiques this ideal by illustrating how Faustus's insatiable thirst for knowledge leads him to make morally questionable choices. The juxtaposition highlights both the potential for human achievement and the perilous consequences of unrestrained ambition, inviting reflection on the limits of human capability.
• Evaluate the impact of Doctor Faustus on later literary works and its relevance to contemporary themes related to ambition and morality.
  • Doctor Faustus has significantly influenced later literary works by establishing enduring themes such as the Faustian bargain and the moral dilemmas associated with ambition. Its exploration of ambition leading to self-destruction resonates with modern narratives that question ethical boundaries in pursuit of success. The play's relevance persists as it prompts audiences to reflect on contemporary issues surrounding scientific advancements, technology, and personal integrity, mirroring Faustus's tragic journey with current societal challenges.

Related terms

Hubris: A character's excessive pride or self-confidence that often leads to their downfall, commonly seen in tragic literature.

Faustian Bargain: A deal in which a person sacrifices their moral integrity for power, knowledge, or other desires, reflecting the core conflict in Doctor Faustus.

Renaissance Humanism: An intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized human potential and achievements, influencing the themes present in Marlowe's works.