Tragedies of The Main Characters in Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe

In the realm of literature, the theme of tragedy frequently manifests through characters whose extreme traits ultimately lead to their downfall. This is particularly evident in Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus," where the protagonist embodies ambition and arrogance, traits that drive him to make catastrophic choices. Faustus, an ambitious scholar, seeks knowledge beyond the constraints of religion, specifically Christianity. His journey illustrates the tragic irony of a man who, in his quest for power and understanding, neglects the very foundation that could have guided him to salvation. This essay will explore the tragedies of Faustus and other main characters in the play, emphasizing their fatal flaws and the lessons learned from their stories.

Faustus: The Tragic Hero

Faustus' character is introduced through his soliloquy in the opening scene, where he expresses disdain for traditional fields of knowledge, claiming mastery over them. He dismisses logic, medicine, and law as inadequate, yearning for a greater understanding that only magic can provide. In his arrogance, he turns to magic, believing it will elevate him to a god-like status. This decision marks the beginning of his tragic trajectory.

Faustus' rejection of Christianity is rooted in his misinterpretation of biblical teachings. He quotes Romans 6:23, asserting that "the reward of sin is death," and concludes that faith in God is futile. This narrow view blinds him to the broader message of hope and redemption found within Christianity. Modern thinkers, such as journalist Lee Strobel, emphasize the importance of seeking answers rather than dismissing faith due to unanswered questions. Faustus' failure to explore the depths of his doubts results in a tragic misunderstanding of divine mercy.

Ambition and the Pursuit of Knowledge

In his quest for knowledge, Faustus makes a pact with Lucifer, trading his soul for twenty-four years of power and knowledge. This decision reflects his belief that he can attain greatness without divine guidance. However, this ambition leads to his isolation from God. Faustus' initial successes, such as gaining knowledge of the cosmos, are overshadowed by the realization that he cannot answer the fundamental questions of existence. When he inquires about the creation of the world, Mephistophilis, the devil he has summoned, refuses to provide the answer, further highlighting Faustus' detachment from God.

As Faustus' time draws to a close, he becomes increasingly aware of his impending doom. Despite recognizing his fate, he clings to the hope of last-minute salvation, citing the story of the thief on the cross as evidence of Christ's mercy. This misguided belief in a last-second reprieve showcases Faustus' inability to grasp the gravity of his actions. He has lived in servitude to Lucifer for twenty-four years, turning away from the light of salvation that was always within reach.

Other Tragic Figures in "Doctor Faustus"

While Faustus is the central tragic figure, other characters also exhibit traits that contribute to their own downfalls. For instance, the Good Angel and the Old Man serve as reminders of the potential for redemption. The Good Angel urges Faustus to return to God, stating that innumerable joys would follow if he heeded this call. The Old Man, appearing near the end of the play, implores Faustus to seek mercy and avoid despair, emphasizing the ever-present opportunity for repentance.

These characters highlight the contrast between hope and despair. The Good Angel represents the voice of reason and faith, while the Old Man embodies the wisdom of experience. However, Faustus' stubbornness and pride prevent him from heeding their counsel, ultimately sealing his fate. The tragic irony lies in the fact that salvation was always available to Faustus; it was his refusal to acknowledge it that led to his demise.

Consequences of Faustus' Choices

Faustus' choices culminate in a tragic ending that serves as a cautionary tale. He is taken to Hell, his pleas for mercy falling on deaf ears. The final moments of the play illustrate his despair as he realizes the consequences of his actions. The imagery of Christ's blood streaming in the firmament serves as a stark reminder of the grace he rejected. Faustus' tragic end underscores the profound misunderstanding he had of Christianity and the nature of divine forgiveness.

To summarize the key points regarding Faustus and the other tragic figures in the play, the following table highlights their traits, choices, and consequences:

Conclusion

Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus" serves as a powerful exploration of the tragic consequences of unchecked ambition and the rejection of faith. Faustus' story, along with the experiences of other characters, illustrates the importance of humility and the pursuit of knowledge grounded in faith. The play ultimately emphasizes that no matter how far one strays, the possibility of redemption remains, provided one is willing to seek it. Faustus' tragedy lies not only in his choices but also in his failure to recognize the hope that was always within reach.

Works Cited

Holy Bible, New International Version. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, 1986.

Jacobus, Lee A. The Bedford Introduction to Drama. Boston: Bedford, 2001.

Strobel, Lee. The Case for Faith. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2000.