I agree with the previous two answers but here is another thought : At that time the printing press had just been invented, which would allow knowledge to become much more widely available (among the educated at least). This invention was also seen as diabolical, particularly with regard to the great work of Gutenberg's Bible, because to print the "Word of God", all the letters had to be reversed. So, with that in mind, an underlying question is: Should one use diabolical means in order to gain knowledge? This was an important social issue at the time and the printing press facilitated challenge to the existing order by allowing educated individuals to make up their own minds on issues, rather than just being told by those in authority.
2007-03-21 06:16:45
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answer #1
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answered by LadyOok 3
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The doctor is a typical Renaissance man - he's studied pretty much everything there is to study (history, maths, alchemy, theology, philosophy... Back then it was still possible to be an expert in pretty much all academic fields, since the overall amount of knowledge was lower, and specialization wasn't as necessary as it is today).
However, he still doesn't feel satisfied. He is driven by a burning hunger for more and more knowledge, he wants to understand what makes the world "tick", and can't rest until he does.
That what drives him to make a deal with the devil.
2007-03-14 03:02:23
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answer #2
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answered by Ms. S 5
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A little of both, Faustus is defintaly a tragedy in so far is it highlights the plight of the human condition, but also offers a view on Morality. Faustus full of his own self woth, leads himself to his own dimise.
2016-03-28 22:45:10
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answer #3
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answered by Scharri 4
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Totally agree what the top person has said, but also look at the religion of the time and the anxiety about religion surrounding the Reformation. Catholic superstition versus Protestant simplicity of worship. Also look at Calvin's stuff about the futility of works and the danger of pursuing any sort of greatness that does not glorify God.
2007-03-14 05:13:09
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answer #4
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answered by Princess Paradox 6
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one man
2007-03-22 00:17:38
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answer #5
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answered by Anonymous
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