Task 3

MEPHISTOPHELES

Mephistopheles is  a demon featured in German folklore. Although originally appeared in literature as the demon in the Faust legend, he has also appeared in other works since as a 'stock character' version of the Devil. Mephistopheles is trapped in his own hell by serving the Devil. He warns Faustus of the choice he is making by "selling his soul" to the Devil. Mephistopheles acts as a guide to Faustus. He is not only a speaker for the Devil, but is also seen as a possible lover to the character. He is a character whom Faustus summons with his initial magical experiments. Mephistopheles' motivations are ambiguous and his goal is to catch Faustus' soul and carry it off to hell, on the other hand he actively attempts to dissuade Faustus from making a deal with Lucifer by warning him about horrors of hell. Mephistopheles is ultimately as a tragic figure as Faustus, with his moving, regretful accounts of what the devils have lost in their eternal separation from God and his repeated reflections on the pain that comes with damnation.

ART FORM:-

Here Mephistopheles' posture, (his crossed arms in particular), shows he is a power character. He is dressed all in red which represents hell. This is ironic as when Mephistopheles is first introduced in the play, he is described as 'the devil', therefore red is a typical colour to portray Mephistopheles. The sword hooked on his left hip creates a feeling of fear and danger. The devilish glare in his eyes draws your attention and entices you. They are unnerving and represent a good portrayal of Mephistopheles.


FILM:-

In this film shot of Mephistopheles he is wearing a cloak. This makes the audience visualise the image of a monk and so reinforces the religious elements within the play. A cloak is a loose outer garment and can be worn to disguise. This builds intrigue as it raises the question of what he could be hiding.  His horns represent a typical 'devil-like' exterior as well as the aspect of hell. His facial expression shows a mysterious side to his personality and behaviour in the play.


LIVE PERFORMANCE:-

In this image of Mephistopheles he is again dressed all in red to symbolise hell. This is a typical and common way to create Mephistopheles. The structure of his arms show power and control, and his facial expression show seriousness. This also emphasises his importance in the play.