The History of the Faust Legend The Devil

















- Slides: 17
The History of the Faust Legend “The Devil and Tom Walker”
History The Devil & Tom Walker is an example of a “Faust” tale Classic tale of a man selling his soul to the Devil for something in return.
History Based on. . . Dr. Johann Georg Faust (1480 -1540) Alchemist from Baden. Wuerttemberg (Southern Germany)
History Alchemy: a science devoted to making the philosopher’s stone (a. k. a. : sorcerer’s stone - America)
History The mystical stone is said to be able to turn any metal into gold Also makes the “Elixir of Life” (immortality)
History Maybe Faust really made the stone? Other notable Alchemists: Nicholas Flamel France 1330 Paracelsus Germany 1493 John Dee England 1527 Tycho Brahe Denmark 1546 Edward Kelley England 1555 Sir Isaac Newton England 1642
Literary Versions “The Tragical History of Dr. Faustus” 1604 Christopher Marlowe England Play (He was Shakespeare’s biggest competition. )
Literary Versions “Faust” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Germany 1832 Closet Play: written as play, but not meant to be acted Very deep: Philosophical & psychological growth of character Social, political, historical critique of Germany
Literary Versions “The Devil and Daniel Webster” Stephen Vincent Binet America: 1937 About a farmer who sells his soul for good harvest
Modern Versions Ghost Rider Sells his soul to save his father. Paying off his life-debt in service
Modern Versions Bedazzled Brendan Fraser/Elizabeth Hurley. She’s a sexy satan helping him with the ladies.
Modern Versions Little Nicky Dan Marino sells his soul to win Super Bowl.
Modern Versions Hercules Sells his strength to save Meg.
Modern Versions Little Shop of Horrors The plant offers Seymour women & riches in return for human meals.
Modern Versions The Little Mermaid Ariel sells her voice to Ursula to be human
Modern Versions Pirates of the Caribbean To be captain of Black Pearl, Jack has to be captain for 10 years. Will Turner saves his father from Davey Jones - takes his service
Modern Versions “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” Charlie Daniels’ Band Play-off for a fiddle of gold