Notes

Question 1

function of prose

Answer 1

• Lower class
• Something evil = language of the Vulgar
• Very private convos = no decorum
• Pragmatic = language of the majority

Question 2

Faustus sin is reminiscent of..

Answer 2

of Satan sin = according to Christian theologians = satan sin = sought independence from God

+

Parallel to archfiend sin = seeks deification / power apart from God

Question 3

scene 4 - comic scene purpose

Summary = Wagner meets poor clown + tries to make him his servant

Answer 3

• As the play progresses, though, Faustus’s grandeur diminishes, and he sinks down toward the level of the clowns, suggesting that degradation precedes damnation
• The clown’s antics provide comic relief; he is a ridiculous character, and his absurd behaviour initially contrasts with Faustus’s grandeur.
• serves to juxtapose Wagner’s petty ends to Faustus’ overreaching ambition

Question 4

use of angels

Answer 4

• Symbolise his tempting desires + potential for redemption
• Demonstrates free will / choice = subverts predestination in prologue = tension

Question 5

parody of 7 deadly sins

Answer 5

Speak in prose = show extent of evil / vulgar

Sins = condensed allegorical representations of F’s life

Question 6

pride sin

Answer 6

parallels to Dr fau = go back + look nicer = proximity of sin to his life = no parents = disrupt great chain of being = god given right = sun

Parentage = metaphor for the way the sin takes root in soul

E.g = pride = no parent = refuse to recognise any authority over their own

Question 7

• Rhyming couplet

Answer 7

pattern is established + inescapable – cannot break out of hell