Doctor Faustus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dr. Faustus |
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First edition title page, 1604
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| Written by | Christopher Marlowe |
| Characters | Dr. Faustus Mephistophilis |
| Date of premiere | ca. 1592 |
| Place of premiere | London, England |
| Original language | English |
| Subject | Devil worship |
| Genre | Tragedy |
| Setting | 16th century Europe |
The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus is a famous play by Christopher Marlowe. It is a tragedy, which means it tells a sad story with a serious ending. The play is about a smart scholar who makes a dangerous deal. He trades his soul for special powers, knowledge, and wisdom.
Marlowe wrote the play around 1592. He got his ideas from a book called The English Faust Book, published in 1592. The play was first printed in 1604. It includes the well-known line, "Was this the face that launch'd a thousand ships?" In 1967, a movie version of the play was released, starring Richard Burton.
Contents
What is Doctor Faustus About?
The story of Doctor Faustus follows a brilliant scholar named John Faustus. He has studied everything there is to know. Yet, he feels that regular knowledge is not enough. He wants more power and understanding.
Faustus's Dangerous Deal
Faustus decides to try magic. He calls upon a powerful, evil spirit named Mephistophilis. Faustus makes a terrible deal with this spirit. He agrees to give his soul to a powerful evil being after 24 years. In return, Mephistophilis will serve him. Faustus will gain amazing powers and knowledge for those 24 years.
The Consequences of Power
For 24 years, Faustus uses his new powers. He travels the world and learns many secrets. He plays tricks on important people. He even brings famous figures from history back to life. But as the years pass, Faustus starts to feel worried. He realizes the terrible price he must pay. He tries to change his mind, but it might be too late. The play shows the sad end of his choices.
Meet the Main Characters
The play has two very important characters. Their actions drive the whole story.
Doctor Faustus
Doctor Faustus is the main character. He is a very smart man. He has learned a lot about many subjects. But he is also very ambitious. He wants more power than any human should have. His desire for knowledge and power leads him to make a very bad decision.
Mephistophilis
Mephistophilis is a powerful spirit. He serves the main evil being in the story. He is clever and tricky. Mephistophilis acts as Faustus's servant for 24 years. He grants Faustus's wishes. But he also reminds Faustus of the deal he made. Mephistophilis represents the dark side of power and temptation.
Why is This Play Important?
Doctor Faustus is a very famous play. It is still studied and performed today.
Themes in the Play
The play explores big ideas. It looks at ambition and what happens when people want too much. It also shows the struggle between good and evil. Faustus has chances to change his path. But he often chooses the wrong way. The play teaches about making choices and facing their consequences.
Christopher Marlowe's Legacy
Christopher Marlowe was a very important writer. He lived in England around the same time as William Shakespeare. Marlowe was known for his powerful language. He wrote many plays that explored big ideas and strong characters. Doctor Faustus is one of his most famous works. It helped shape English theater.
