The Complexities Of Mephostophilis

The Complexities of Mephostophilis
In Medieval cycle plays, devils were portrayed as comic characters that triumphed over their adversaries in spite of
their crudeness and ineptitude. With the advent of Renaissance drama, came new ideas and characters, as
playwrights took a new stance in their portrayals of evil and devils. The devils and Mephostophilis in particular, in
Christopher Marlowe's play Dr. Faustus are much more complex than those in preceding medieval drama are.
Mephostophilis's only goal in the play is to acquire Faustus's damned soul for Lucifer. As straightforward a goal as
this might appear, its execution becomes fascinating for the audience because of Marlowe's characterization.
Mephostophilis is both friend and archenemy of Faustus. He is the teller of truths and the manipulator of lies; he is a
reflection of Faustus's own character and an instrument of Lucifer's diabolical quest. Mephostophilis's diversity of
characteristics makes him a most interesting Renaissance character because h!
e is not flat, all good or all bad, but rather a multifaceted character, which wins over Faustus and draws the audience
in with his intrigue.
The play opens in Faustus's study, where Faustus is contemplating his many scholastic accomplishments. Having
succeeded in his studies in both the academic and theological fields, Faustus has become bored and wishes to pursue
further knowledge in necromancy. He conjures up the image of a devil and so begins the relationship...

The Complexities Of Mephostophilis

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