Symbolism in Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe
Introduction Plot Overview Chapter-wise Summary Analysis Themes Quotes Characters Symbolism Seven Deadly Sins: Doctor Faustus features a rather famous allegory of the Seven Deadly Sins, which appear as actual figures that Mephistopheles and his companions conjure up. Each of these sins – Pride, Greed, Envy, Wrath, Gluttony, Sloth, and Lust – become embodied on the stage, explaining their origins as a metaphor for how they take over the soul. This allegory had historical precedent even in the early modern era; it was common Medieval practice to personify the seven deadly sins on stage, and Renaissance audiences would have likely recognized these figures as soon as they appeared. Furthermore, Faustus's reaction to the Sins – he simply laughs them off – suggests that he does not take them seriously as threats, aligning his character with the Devil rather than God. Good and Bad Angels: In another example of allegory, the Good and Bad angels appear throughout the play, typically in moments when…