Introduction: Doctor Faustus, the protagonist of Christopher Marlowe’s (1564-93) play “Doctor Faustus,”. Faustus can be seen as a complex and conflicted figure. He embodies certain aspects of the Renaissance hero. While he shares some traits with traditional Renaissance heroes, such as intelligence and ambition, he also displays characteristics that challenge the conventional ideals of the era. Let’s discuss Doctor Faustus as a Renaissance hero.
Intellectual Curiosity and Pursuit of Knowledge
Like many Renaissance heroes, Faustus possesses an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He excels in various academic disciplines, including theology, law, and medicine. His relentless pursuit of knowledge reflects the Renaissance ideal of intellectual exploration. He seeks knowledge beyond conventional limits and pursues the dark arts of necromancy. Faustus declares,
“A sound magician is a mighty god”
It highlights his aspiration to attain God-like power through his mastery of magic.”
Rejection of Traditional Authority
Faustus rebels against the limitations imposed by traditional authority figures, such as the church and the academic establishment. He rejects his time’s conventional wisdom and dogma, seeking to transcend the boundaries of human understanding through forbidden knowledge and occult practices. This defiance aligns with the Renaissance spirit of challenging established norms and beliefs.
Ambition and Desire for Greatness
Faustus’s ambition is a prominent characteristic of the Renaissance hero. He craves power, fame, and recognition beyond what conventional means can offer. His desire to surpass the limitations of mortal existence and become godlike demonstrates his relentless pursuit of greatness.
Struggle Between Good and Evil
Faustus’s internal conflict between good and evil reflects the Renaissance fascination with the human condition. He recognizes the moral consequences of his actions but succumbs to the temptations offered by Mephistopheles. This inner struggle portrays the human capacity for both virtue and vice, reflecting the Renaissance belief in the complexity of human nature.
Tragic Flaw and Downfall
Faustus’s tragic flaw, his pride, and arrogance, ultimately leads to his downfall. Despite his intelligence, he underestimates the consequences of his pact with the devil and overestimates his ability to control the forces he has unleashed. This hubris is a recurring theme in Renaissance tragedies and serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition.
Humanism and Individualism
Faustus exhibits a sense of individualism and free will. It aligns with the humanistic ideals of the Renaissance. He rejects traditional authority and seeks to define his own destiny. Faustus states,
“Divinity, adieu!
These metaphysics of magicians
And necromantic books are heavenly”
This quote emphasizes his rejection of divinity in favor of personal exploration.
In Conclusion, Doctor Faustus can be seen as a Renaissance hero who embodies the era’s noble aspirations and tragic flaws. His intellectual curiosity, ambition, and rejection of authority are reminiscent of the Renaissance spirit.
Read Also: Discuss Doctor Faustus as a Morality Play
