close
close
why does faustus originally ask mephastophilis to bring him helen of troy?

why does faustus originally ask mephastophilis to bring him helen of troy?

2 min read 10-12-2024
why does faustus originally ask mephastophilis to bring him helen of troy?

Introduction:

Christopher Marlowe's Doctor Faustus is a classic tale of ambition, damnation, and the intoxicating allure of forbidden knowledge. One of the play's most striking scenes involves Faustus's request for Mephastophilis to conjure Helen of Troy. But why does Faustus, a scholar consumed by the pursuit of power and knowledge, desire this specific figure from classical mythology? The answer lies in a complex interplay of lust, intellectual curiosity, and a yearning for the unattainable. This article delves into the motivations behind Faustus's unusual request, exploring the symbolic significance of Helen and her role in the larger narrative of the play.

The Allure of Helen: Beauty and the Supernatural

Faustus's fascination with Helen isn't merely a fleeting whim; it represents a deeper exploration of beauty, desire, and the limits of human experience. Helen of Troy, renowned for her unparalleled beauty, is a figure inextricably linked with the Trojan War – a conflict born of lust and ambition. Faustus, similarly driven by ambitious desires, sees in Helen a manifestation of the intoxicating power of beauty, a power that can eclipse even reason and morality.

Helen as a Test of Mephastophilis's Power

Faustus's request also serves as a test of Mephastophilis's capabilities. By demanding the conjuring of a figure from such a distant and legendary past, Faustus assesses the devil's power and the extent of the pact he's made. The successful appearance of Helen validates Mephastophilis's power, reinforcing Faustus's belief in the efficacy of his bargain with the demonic forces. This act underlines Faustus's growing reliance on magic and his increasing detachment from the world of morality.

Beyond the Physical: The Intellectual and Spiritual Dimensions

While the visual spectacle of Helen's appearance is undeniably compelling, Faustus's desire extends beyond mere lust. Helen's presence provides him with a tangible link to history and classical learning, realms that he has previously explored through intellectual pursuits. Her appearance is a testament to the power of magic to transcend temporal and spatial boundaries, further confirming the potential of the pact he has made with the devil.

Helen as a Symbol of Unattainable Perfection

However, it's also important to note the inherent unattainability of Helen. Her beauty is celebrated, yet it was the source of a devastating war. Faustus's pursuit mirrors his own grasping for power and knowledge, demonstrating his inability to find fulfillment in either. He seeks out what's beyond reach – not just Helen, but also the mastery of all knowledge and infinite power – mirroring the human tendency to strive for impossible ideals.

The Tragic Consequence: A Haunting Reminder

Faustus's encounter with Helen ultimately underscores the play's central theme of the consequences of unchecked ambition. The fleeting pleasure derived from her appearance is short-lived, leaving behind a sense of emptiness and despair. This episode reinforces the tragic nature of Faustus's pact and the inevitable downfall awaiting those who pursue forbidden knowledge without regard for their own morality.

Conclusion:

Faustus's request for Helen of Troy is not simply a moment of sensual indulgence. It is a pivotal scene that encapsulates the play's central themes – ambition, the allure of power, and the devastating consequences of pursuing forbidden knowledge. Through Helen, Marlowe highlights the dangers of prioritizing fleeting pleasures and the destructive nature of unchecked desire, underscoring the ultimately tragic trajectory of Faustus's life. The request embodies Faustus's flawed quest for unattainable perfection, a quest that leads him further down a path of damnation.

Related Posts


Latest Posts


Popular Posts