The Faustian Bargain
The Faustian BargainDeals with the Devil
Origin of the nameDr. FaustusPlay by Christopher Marlow (a
mentor to William Shakespeare)Dr. Faust is a scholar who has
learned everything there is to learn. As a way of furthering his
learning, Faust makes a deal with Lucifer to have Lucifers servant
as his aid and teacher for 24 years after which Lucifer may have
his soul. As the play continues Faust begins to regret his deal and
looks for ways to escape his fate. He, of course, fails, and must
pay his debt to the devil.
Characters (the Hero)Characters tend to be very human.Ambitious.
Middle Aged. They have begun to lose hope. One central thing that
means a great deal to them.
The DevilOften it is the true devil referred to by a common name
for him: SatanLuciferThe black manPrince of darknessThe black
woodsmanOld Scratch666, 616, Number of the BeastThe beast,
BeelzebubOther times his is character with evil intent. A character
who offers a special chance at a price. Anytime a character appears
bearing gifts be on the lookout.
PatternWe see the status quo of the hero. Dissatisfied Believe
they could do so much more. The hero happens upon what appears to
be a lucky break.Offered a deal by the devil.The devil marks the
hero in some way. The hero enjoys the fruits of the deal for a
while. The enjoyment generally feels hollow. Hero begins to regret
the deal s/he has made. Looks for ways out. Devil returns to
collect. Tale ends in the death of the hero either literal or
symbolic.
ExamplesClick for Song (Lyrics)Click for Song
Add The Devils Right Hand by Jonny Cash6SymbolsBiblical Symbols
are rife throughout these tales. NumbersColorsAlways be on the
lookout for Christ figures.
Historical figuresThese Stories tend to take swipes at
historical figures from their own cultures suggesting that this
figures have sold their souls. This offers a chance to see the
values of a society.
ThemeThere can be only one theme possible with the pure form of
this pattern of story.
The choice to sell your soul will lead to ruin.
The place for variation of this theme is in whether and how much
the hero comes to regret his/her choice.
Or if the hero chooses not to sell his soul. Occasionally the
hero only imagines for gets a trial run.
