function of prose
- Lower class
- Something evil = language of the Vulgar
- Very private convos = no decorum
- Pragmatic = language of the majority
Faustus sin is reminiscent of..
of Satan sin = according to Christian theologians = satan sin = sought independence from God
+
Parallel to archfiend sin = seeks deification / power apart from God
scene 4 - comic scene purpose
Summary = Wagner meets poor clown + tries to make him his servant
- 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
use of angels
- Symbolise his tempting desires + potential for redemption
- Demonstrates free will / choice = subverts predestination in prologue = tension
parody of 7 deadly sins
Speak in prose = show extent of evil / vulgar
Sins = condensed allegorical representations of F’s life
pride sin
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
- Rhyming couplet
pattern is established + inescapable – cannot break out of hell
