The Tragically History of the Life and Death of

Doctor Faustus
A German scholar named Faustus sells his soul to
the devil. Dissatisfied with the limits of knowledge,
Faustus pursues dark magic and makes a deal with
Lucifer; his soul in exchange for unlimited power
through the servitude of Mephistopheles, a
demon, for 24 years. With his granted powers, he
becomes greedy for wealth and glory; he begins
performing conjuring acts and abusing his abilities
by playing pranks on people.
Several times throughout the play, Faustus feels
doubt and regret about his decision, which is
depicted through the appearances of the Good and
Evil Angels. However, Mephistopheles, along with
Lucifer, pulls him away from his remorse. It is not
until near Faustus's expiration date that an Old
Man visits him and asks him to repent. During this
conversation, Faustus reflects on his life and
despairingly accepts his doomed fate. Right before
his death, he tells his fellow scholars about his deal
with the devil; they pray for his soul. At midnight,
demons take away his soul and on the following
morning, his fellow scholars find his torn limbs.
The story ends with a warning from the Chorus
about what happens to men who seek more than
what heavenly power permits.