"Dr Faustus" - Marlowe (1) (Research)

Play:                     Dr Faustus
Playwright:          Christopher Marlowe
Genre:                 Tragedy
Era:                      Renaissance
Setting:                16th Century Europe
First Published:   1604

"The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Dr Faustus" (or "Dr Faustus as it is commonly known as) is a tragedy play written by Christopher Marlowe. It is based on the German story "Faust". The play was very powerful and lead to many legends. One tale involved "the actual devils" appearing on stage during a performance of the play, shocking both performers and audience. This tale was recorded by William Prynne; those who witnessed this event were allegedly driven mad.

Brief Summary: 
          Faustus craves more knowledge in law, medicine and logic, so gets his servant (Wagner) to bring his two German experts in magic (Valdes and Cornelius) to teach him about necromancy. Faustus manages to make Mephistopheles appear. Faustus sends Mephistopheles back to hell with a message for Lucifer: if Faustus can have 24 years of absolute knowledge and power, he will sell his soul to Lucifer.
          Despite several omens warning him, Faustus ignores the angels’ advice and signs a contract in blood for Lucifer when Mephistopheles returns. Later, Faustus begins to repent as the voice of the Good Angel. However, Mephistopheles and Lucifer appear and display the seven deadly sins to confuse Faustus. Mephistopheles takes Faustus to various places (including Rome and Germany) to play tricks on many people (including the Pope) against Faustus's will. Faustus realises that time is running out for him and it is too late for him to ask for forgiveness. He sinks into deeper despair and is taken away by Lucifer and Mephistopheles to hell.