Presence of God in Dr. Faustus

There are so many ways to interpret Marlowe's writing of this piece. On one hand, God cannot be mentioned, does not blatantly reach out to Faustus, and is blasphemed on a regular basis by both the author and its characters... Or so it seems.

As we discussed Tuesday in class, God is omnipresent in this piece, from one standpoint. One can believe that God is the reason Mephastophilis cannot tell Faustus all of the answers to the questions he is asked. Furthermore, the bringing on of Faustus' doubt of his commitment to Lucifer can been seen as God's guidance and urging, as well. There are so many ways to "see" God, although because Faustus will not acknowledge Him, His presence is not obvious.

This makes me question Marlowe's true intent. Without knowing more about his true history, one cannot come to a fact-based conclusion. The biography of Marlowe, as we were told by Prof. Staub, is one of many unknowns. The majority believes that Marlowe was a raging atheist whose goal in life was to break the faith of those around him. Some would interpret the story of Dr. Faustus as this- mockery of religion and faith. Firstly, because he signs off to Lucifer and blasphems God, but secondly, because in Faustus' foolish commitment to a greater power (the Devil, in this case), he becomes trapped in a world of confusion and deceit. He committed to Lucifer in search of answers and power, but in his act of commitment, is stripped of true answers and of true power, as well. This makes the story and Faustus' intent quite ironic.

As I reflect, now, I don't focus on the presence of a "Good" or an "Evil". Instead, I focus on the concept of faith. Faith, as seen in this story, can be placed in anything: power, people, ideals, and greater beings. And in all cases, faith can let you down. I believe that this may have been a message that Marlowe wished to deliver. In one case, God has let Faustus down for his lack of presence and assistence. On the other hand, Lucifer (who truly can't be expected to be honorable) lets Faustus down because he strips him of personal power and of his ability to practice his curiousity.

Words we used to describe Faustus were 'proud', 'power-hungry', 'greedy/glutonous', 'pompous', etc. But in reality, he doubts everything he does. He questions Mephastophilis on things he has been taught his entire life (heaven, hell, matters of religion), and then refuses to accept the things he is told.

There are so many interesting elements of this piece that I am trying to wrap my head around. I look forward to more discussions in class!