The Tragical History of Dr. Faustus : Christopher Marlow

What is a Faustian Bargain?

Dr John Faustus is well learned in languages, astrology, and other subjects. He prides himself in being one of the most intelligent scholars in Germany. However, Faustus yearns for more power - power which he cannot find in just books. He discovers necromantic powers in a strange book and calls upon a demon named Mephistophilis in a forest. He then questions Mephistophilis about hell, he replies,

"Why this is hell, nor am I out of it:
Think'st thou that I, that saw the face of God,
and tasted Eternal Joys of Heaven,
Am not tormented with ten thousand hells,
In being depriv'd of everlasting bliss?"

Little did Faustus know, that he would end up much like this 'sweet Mephistophilis'. He also told Faustus of Lucifer, the arch regent and commander of the spirits in hell. Faustus, eager to gain more knowledge by any means asked Mephistophilis what good he would do Lucifer, and he replied "enlarge his kingdom." Dr. Faustus then requests that Mephistophilis go to Lucifer to ask for a deal: Faustus wishes to have twenty four years of knowledge and power with all the demons of hell at his command. After these twenty four years his soul will be Lucifer's. Lucifer agrees happily.

After Faustus has sworn to Lucifer his loyalty in his own blood, he begins to realize that the power he was promised is not what he expected. After his twenty four years have dwindled to and end, the people of Europe have come to hate him. Every time Dr Faustus contemplates repenting, he is lured back to Lucifer. He believes that he is too hardened for repentance, and that God would never accept him into Heaven. On the night of his death, Faustus begins to pray, but since he has enjoyed the service of demons for most of his life, it is too late.

Faustus was too eager for more knowledge, and for him, knowledge equaled power. Sorcery and magic was something dark and secret, making it more tempting. So, being drawn into the dark arts in search of power he met Mephistophilis, and made a pact with Lucifer. Faustus believed that through such a higher power like the devil, he could achieve greatness, no matter if it was only for twenty four years. Later, though, he learned that his greed led to his downfall and eternal damnation.

A faustian bargain: to give up anything or all that you have in search for something you believe is bigger or better, which will eventually end in your downfall.