The Renaissance through texts and objects: Marlowe's Doctor Faustus

In Christopher Marlowe’s 1592 tragedy an eminent scholar cuts a deal with the devil in exchange for mastering the dark arts. Faustus is prepared to relinquish his own life in exchange for unlimited power at a time when science and magic were often interchangeable. The story — based on a real-life German scholar and magician — has since been interpreted by artists in many cultural milieus, most notably by Marlowe and Goethe. The questions have remained relevant through the centuries: how far can knowledge go? Where does magic become witchcraft?  Can too much ambition be dangerous? Today, 430 years later, as we grapple with the limits of our action on the world around us, Faustus’s tragedy seems more pressing than ever.

In this study we will discuss the play’s poetry, sources and influence. Through a variety of visual materials alongside the readings we will explore the connections between knowledge and power in the Renaissance and in our own times.

STUDY DETAILS:

• Led by Vivien Kogut, Marlowe’s Dr Faustus is part of her ongoing exploration of The Renaissance through texts and objects.
• Four week virtual study (via Zoom), starting 23 May 2023, ending 13 June.
• Tuesday evenings, 5.30-7.30 pm (UK)
• £120 for four sessions