Task 4

"How does Marlowe explore the Gothic themes of over-reaching ambition, sin and evil in the first Act of Dr Faustus?"

 

Throughout the first act of Dr Faustus, Marlowe has explored the gothic themes of over-reaching ambition, sin and evil. Within the prologue, Marlowe has made a comparison between Faustus and Icarus, who is a character in Greek mythology. Faustus’ tale is likened to that of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun and fell to his death when the sun melted his waxen wings. This brings the audience’s attention to the idea of hubris, which in Greek tragedy is excessive pride toward or defiance of the gods, which is represented in the Icarus story. This is a good example of over-reaching ambition.

Marlowe also explores the gothic theme of ‘over-reaching ambition’ within the beginning of Dr Faustus. Marlowe has Faustus deliver a long soliloquy where Faustus himself looks at the most rewarding form of study “settle thy studies”. However, he believes he is far too intelligent for all of his considerations. He firstly considers logic. Greek philosopher Aristotle was a teacher of logic, although Faustus explains that this is not scholarly enough for him. He then looks into medicine, where he quotes the Greek physician Galen. He then explains that medicine is the most fruitful pursuit. Law is the next aspect he considers, but dismisses it as he believes it to be too petty. Shortly afterwards he dismisses religion and fixes his mind on magic, which he believes will make him “a mighty god”. This is another representation of over ambition. Faustus attempts to create a persona that shows he is one of great intelligence and someone who should have a challenging profession which holds him in a strong social status.

 Faustus is revealed to be a sinful man throughout the play. He is continuously making wrong decisions. His first sin is greed. ”He surfeits upon cursed necromancy”. Faustus makes a pact with Lucifer which can be considered as the ultimate sin. This is not only because he disobeys God, but because he consciously renounces obedience to him, choosing instead to swear intelligence to the devil. Another instance of sin is shown through Faustus’ words “necromantic books are heavenly”, which is written in the form of binary opposition. This paradox and oxymoron also shows Faustus’ lack of divinity throughout the play.