Exploring Morality and Ambition in "Doctor Faustus"

Introduction

Christopher Marlowe's play "Doctor Faustus" is a classic example of Elizabethan drama that explores the themes of ambition, morality, and the conflict between good and evil. The story follows the tragic downfall of the protagonist, Dr. Faustus, as he sells his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge and power. This essay will analyze the play's exploration of morality, the role of Faustus as a tragic hero, and the religious and political allegory it contains.

Overview of the Play "Doctor Faustus"

The play "Doctor Faustus" centers around the titular character, a brilliant scholar who becomes disillusioned with traditional forms of knowledge and seeks ultimate power. In his quest for unlimited knowledge and supernatural abilities, Faustus makes a pact with Mephistopheles, a servant of Lucifer, and agrees to exchange his soul for twenty-four years of service from Mephistopheles. The play explores themes of hubris, the limits of human knowledge, and the consequences of individual choices.

Faustus as a Tragic Hero

In classical literature, a tragic hero is a character who possesses noble qualities but is ultimately doomed by a fatal flaw. Dr. Faustus fits this archetype as he is a learned and respected figure, but his insatiable ambition leads to his downfall. Faustus exhibits hubris, or excessive pride, which blinds him to the consequences of his actions. As a result, he makes a series of impulsive decisions that lead to his damnation.

The Role of Morality in "Doctor Faustus"

The play "Doctor Faustus" presents a moral dilemma as Faustus chooses to pursue knowledge and power at the expense of his soul. His decision reflects the internal conflict between good and evil, as represented by the angel and devil characters that offer him guidance. The play can be categorized as a morality play, a genre popular in the medieval and Renaissance periods that aimed to teach moral lessons through allegorical characters and situations.

Religious and Political Allegory in "Doctor Faustus"

Marlowe's play contains religious symbolism and imagery that reflects the tensions of the Reformation era, when England was divided between Catholicism and Protestantism. The play's portrayal of the devil and temptation can be interpreted as a critique of the Catholic Church and the corrupting influence of power. Additionally, "Doctor Faustus" can be seen as a political allegory, as Faustus' pursuit of knowledge and independence mirrors the political struggle for agency and autonomy during the Tudor period.

The Influence of Classical Tragedy in "Doctor Faustus"

Marlowe's play is heavily influenced by Greek and Roman tragedies, particularly the idea of a protagonist who is destined for downfall due to his fatal flaw. The play employs classic tragic conventions such as the use of soliloquies, dramatic irony, and a sense of inevitability in Faustus' demise. However, "Doctor Faustus" also deviates from classical tragedy by incorporating elements of comedy and the supernatural, creating a unique blend of genres.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Doctor Faustus" is a complex and multifaceted play that explores the themes of morality, ambition, and the struggle between good and evil. Through the tragic character of Dr. Faustus, Marlowe presents a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of compromising one's moral principles. The play's religious and political allegory, as well as its engagement with classical tragedy, further enrich its thematic depth and enduring relevance.

References

1. Greenblatt, Stephen. "The Power of Forms in the English Renaissance." The Kenyon Review, vol. 13, no. 4, 1991, pp. 19-36.
2. Kuriyama, Constance Brown. Christopher Marlowe: A Renaissance Life. Cornell University Press, 2004.
3. Logan, Terence P. Christopher Marlowe: The Craftsman Lives On. Cambridge University Press, 2003.