Faust

Definition

Faust is a character from German legend who makes a pact with the devil, exchanging his soul for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. This narrative reflects themes of ambition, desire, and the struggle between good and evil, deeply resonating with Enlightenment thought and the exploration of human nature found in the works of writers such as Goethe, who famously adapted the Faust legend in his own dramatic masterpiece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The most famous adaptation of the Faust story is Goethe's 'Faust', published in two parts, with Part One released in 1808 and Part Two in 1832, which explores the complexity of human desires and moral dilemmas.
2. Faust's pact with Mephistopheles symbolizes the eternal conflict between ambition and moral integrity, reflecting Enlightenment ideas about reason versus emotion.
3. The character of Faust represents the archetype of the 'tragic hero', embodying the potential for greatness but ultimately facing dire consequences due to his choices.
4. Goethe's portrayal of Faust evolved throughout his life, initially presenting a more straightforward moral tale in Part One, while Part Two introduces broader philosophical questions about existence and redemption.
5. The Faustian bargain has become a cultural metaphor for sacrificing one's principles or values for success or knowledge, influencing countless works across literature, film, and music.

Review Questions

• How does the character of Faust embody the themes of ambition and moral conflict present in Enlightenment literature?
  • Faust embodies ambition through his relentless quest for knowledge and experience, which leads him to make a pact with Mephistopheles. This decision illustrates the moral conflict inherent in Enlightenment thought, where reason and desire clash. Faust's journey reflects not only individual aspiration but also the consequences of overreaching ambition, serving as a cautionary tale about the pursuit of power at the expense of one's soul.
• Discuss how Goethe's adaptation of the Faust legend reflects Enlightenment ideals while also paving the way for Romanticism.
  • Goethe's adaptation of Faust integrates Enlightenment ideals such as rationality and individuality while simultaneously exploring emotional depth and existential questions. In Part One, Faust's struggle with his limits represents Enlightenment's emphasis on human potential. However, his experiences also touch on Romantic themes by emphasizing intense emotions and the quest for meaning beyond mere knowledge. This duality illustrates the transition from Enlightenment to Romantic thought.
• Evaluate the impact of the Faust legend on contemporary literature and culture, considering its thematic relevance today.
  • The Faust legend continues to resonate in contemporary literature and culture by highlighting themes like ambition, ethical dilemmas, and the quest for meaning. The concept of a 'Faustian bargain' has become a cultural reference point for those who forsake their values for success or power. This relevance persists in modern storytelling across various media, prompting audiences to reflect on their own choices and societal values, thus demonstrating its lasting influence.

Related terms

Mephistopheles: The demon or devil figure in the Faust legend, often seen as a tempter who offers Faust knowledge and power in exchange for his soul.

Allegory: A literary device used to convey deeper meanings through symbolic figures, actions, or imagery; Faust serves as an allegory for human striving and the consequences of overreaching ambition.

Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion and individualism; Faust's quest for meaning and understanding is a precursor to themes explored in Romantic literature.