Doctor Faustus
Longman literature Series
on Goodreads (70,191)
What’s inside...
Longman Literature offers a curated collection of literature suitable for 16 to 18 year olds, featuring fiction, poetry, plays, and non-fiction, pre and post 1914. The collection includes two versions of 'Doctor Faustus,' both originating from Marlowe's era performances. These versions, labeled as 'A text' and 'B text,' contain authentic content but differ in scenes and wording. The 'A text' version is tailored for students transitioning from GCSE to AS/A level, equipped with a detailed introduction, textual notes, exam-style questions, and critical works on the play.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-17
Length
200 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Doctor Faustus
Wagner
Good Angel
Evil Angel
Mephistopheles
Mephostophilis
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Doctor Faustus to make his deal with Mephistopheles?
How do different characters in the story react to Doctor Faustus’ decisions? Do you think they agree with him?
What are the consequences of Faustus' choices throughout the play? How does that relate to real-life decisions?
What could Doctor Faustus have done differently? What would you have done in his situation?
How does the theme of knowledge versus morality play out in the story? What can we learn from it?
Tip: Role play these questions
During your discussion, connect the themes of the book to everyday ethical decisions and the importance of making good choices.
Encourage your child to think critically about the characters' motivations, sparking deeper insight into their own values and beliefs.
Explore the historical and philosophical context of the story together to enhance understanding and appreciation of its themes.
Frame questions that relate to your child’s experiences in school or with friends, which can make the discussion more relevant and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The consequences of unchecked ambition
Explanation: Doctor Faustus makes a deal with the devil to gain unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures, which ultimately leads to his downfall.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of setting healthy ambitions and understanding that reckless desires can sometimes lead to negative outcomes.
Example Lesson: The value of humility
Explanation: Despite his vast knowledge, Faustus’s inability to repent or ask for divine mercy illustrates the dangers of pride.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and embrace humility, recognizing that no amount of success or knowledge should strip away their ability to seek help or forgive others.
Example Lesson: The importance of making wise choices
Explanation: Faustus’s choice to engage with demonic forces for his own gain without considering long-term consequences serves as a cautionary tale.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in everyday situations like peer pressure, teaching kids to think critically about the potential consequences of their actions.
Example Lesson: The power of redemption
Explanation: Despite his pact, Faustus struggles with his conscience and contemplates repentance, reflecting the continuous battle between good and evil within.
Real-World Application: It serves as a reminder to children that it’s never too late to make right choices and seek forgiveness.
Example Lesson: The pursuit of knowledge
Explanation: Faustus's initial desire to learn and understand beyond the humanly possible shows the natural human inclination towards learning.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to pursue knowledge and learning but also teaches them to recognize the boundaries and ethical considerations in doing so.