- Obtaining a strong passion, which often borders on obsession.
- Being inhuman in some form, whether that be in a physical or emotional sense.
- Having a degree of high status.
- Dabbling in corrupt affairs.
- To have a strong physical presence.
- To be of a high intelligence, that ties in with an arrogant persona.
From our reading in lesson it was clear Faustus held many of these attributes true. The setting of Scene 1 alone, shows Faustus is supposed to be seen in a intelligent light as he is sat in his study. This intelligence is immediately instilled from the chorus; 'Shortly grac'd with doctor's name', 'Excelling all'. His knowledge of the Latin language and awareness of Aristotle's ideas also depict a certain high level of intelligence from the character.
Faustus' arrogant nature is apparent from Scene One, as he believes he can dominate the world; 'All things that move between the quiet poles shall be at my command.' In dismissing the greatly hailed Aristotle's ideas, Faustus is suggesting his ideas prevail Aristotle's, an extremely arrogant view to have.
Faustus' excessive ambition ties in with his arrogance. He compares himself to Jesus as he suggests he could 'raise them to live again', as Jesus resurrected many souls from the dead. In Faustus comparing himself to Jesus it shows the drive his character has to achieve, however is also risky ground covered by Marlowe, as the contemporary audience were very religion conscious and many had accused Marlowe of being an Atheist.
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