Or, justify Faustus as an embodiment of the Renaissance spirit.

Or, what are the Renaissance elements you find in Doctor Faustus?

Or, discuss Doctor Faustus as a Renaissance hero.

The Renaissance (14th century to 17th century) was a period of new learning, new thinking, and strong faith in human ability. People began to value knowledge, science, individual freedom, and worldly success. Christopher Marlowe’s (1564-1593) “Doctor Faustus” (1604) clearly reflects these Renaissance values. Dr. Faustus is not a medieval monk who only thinks of God and heaven. He is a Renaissance man who wants knowledge, power, and glory in this world. Through Faustus’s thoughts, desires, and actions, Marlowe presents the spirit of the Renaissance. However, the play also shows the dangers of going beyond limits.

Love for Knowledge and Learning: One important Renaissance value is the deep love for knowledge. Faustus is a great scholar. He has mastered logic, medicine, law, and theology. This shows the Renaissance belief that human knowledge is powerful. Faustus is not satisfied with ordinary learning. He wants to know everything. He wants to discover the secrets of the universe. So, he decides to learn magic. He wants the spirits to bring him whatever he wants and answer all his questions.

“Shall I make spirits fetch me what I please,

Resolve me of all ambiguities.”

This thirst for knowledge is a clear Renaissance quality.

Faith in Human Power and Ability: The Renaissance encouraged confidence in human power. Faustus strongly believes that man can control nature and destiny. He wants the spirits to bring him gold, pearls, and knowledge from all corners of the world. He wants to build walls around countries and rule like an emperor. These dreams show Renaissance optimism about human ability. Faustus believes that with knowledge and magic, he can become equal to God. He even says:

“A sound magician is a mighty god.”

This shows the Renaissance idea that man is the center of the universe. However, Faustus goes too far, and his confidence turns into pride.

Desire for Worldly Success and Pleasure: Medieval people mainly focused on heaven and the afterlife. But Renaissance people valued worldly success, pleasure, and fame. Faustus shows this clearly. He wants wealth, honor, power, and pleasure on earth. He sells his soul for twenty-four years of enjoyment. During this time, he enjoys royal courts, plays tricks, entertains kings, and even desires physical beauty like Helen of Troy. Seeing Helen, he says:

“Sweet Helen, make me immortal with a kiss.” 

This line shows his desire for earthly pleasure instead of spiritual peace.

Individualism: Individualism is a strong Renaissance value. Faustus acts according to his own will. He makes his own choices and follows his own desires. No one forces him to practice magic or sell his soul. The Good Angel warns him many times, but Faustus chooses his own path. This freedom of choice shows Renaissance individualism. Faustus believes that he has the right to decide his future. However, Marlowe also shows that freedom without limit can lead to destruction.

Conflict Between Renaissance Spirit and Christian Belief: The play also shows the tension between Renaissance values and Christian faith. Faustus represents the Renaissance spirit. He rejects traditional religion and turns to magic. Yet, he is often troubled by guilt and fear of hell. The Good Angel and the old man tell him to repent.

“Repent, yet God will pity thee.”

This conflict shows how Renaissance men were caught between new ideas and old beliefs.

In conclusion, Dr. Faustus is a true embodiment of the Renaissance spirit. His love for knowledge, faith in human power, desire for worldly success, and strong individualism all reflect Renaissance values. At the same time, Marlowe warns that uncontrolled ambition and pride can lead to ruin. Faustus’s tragic end shows that Renaissance aspirations need moral limits.