Who speaks in the prologue of doctor faustus?

Who speaks in the prologue of doctor faustus?

In Christopher Marlowe's play "Doctor Faustus," the prologue is spoken by the Chorus, a character that serves as a narrator and commentator throughout the play. The Chorus provides the audience with an introduction to the story, sets the tone, and offers insights into the themes and moral implications of the play. Through the voice of the Chorus, Marlowe establishes a framework for the audience's understanding and interpretation of the events that unfold in the play.

The Chorus opens the prologue with a statement that sets the stage for the tragic events that will follow: "Not marching now in fields of Thrasymene, / Where Mars did mate the warlike Carthaginians" (ll. 1-2). This introductory statement alludes to the historical Battle of Lake Trasimene between the Roman army and the Carthaginians during the Second Punic War. By referencing this battle, the Chorus immediately creates an atmosphere of conflict and foreshadows the impending struggle that will unfold in the play.

The Chorus then proceeds to introduce the protagonist, Faustus, describing him as a "renowned scholar" (l. 4) and a man who has exhausted the traditional fields of study. The Chorus presents Faustus's intellectual prowess and insatiable thirst for knowledge, stating that he has "surfeited upon cursed necromancy" (l. 9). This line suggests that Faustus's quest for knowledge has led him to dabble in forbidden and demonic practices. By highlighting Faustus's intellectual pursuits, the Chorus establishes him as a character who challenges the boundaries of human knowledge and embarks on a dangerous path.

The Chorus then proceeds to draw parallels between Faustus and other mythological and historical figures. One of the most notable comparisons made in the prologue is with the mythological character of Icarus. The Chorus states, "Till, swollen with cunning, of a self-conceit, / His waxen wings did mount above his reach" (ll. 20-21). This reference to Icarus, who flew too close to the sun and fell to his demise, serves as a cautionary tale and foreshadows the tragic fate that awaits Faustus. The comparison emphasizes Faustus's hubris and ambition, suggesting that his desires and aspirations will ultimately lead to his downfall.

In addition to the comparison with Icarus, the Chorus also draws a parallel between Faustus and the biblical character of Adam. The Chorus describes Faustus as a "scurvy politician, / Seeming devout, but inwardly to die" (ll. 31-32). This reference alludes to Adam's temptation by the serpent and his subsequent fall from grace. The comparison implies that Faustus's actions are blasphemous, as he engages in practices that defy the divine order. It highlights Faustus's hypocrisy, presenting him as someone who outwardly appears pious but is inwardly damned.

Throughout the prologue, the Chorus employs vivid and evocative language to engage the audience and heighten their anticipation for the tragic events to come. For example, the Chorus refers to Faustus's pursuit of power and knowledge as "rarefied" and "strange" (l. 10). This language creates an air of mystery and suggests that Faustus's actions are not only extraordinary but also potentially dangerous. The Chorus further emphasizes this sense of danger by stating, "His waxen wings did mount above his reach" (l. 21). The imagery of waxen wings conveys the fragility of Faustus's ambitions, suggesting that his aspirations will ultimately lead to his downfall.

Moreover, the Chorus's language also serves to evoke a moral and philosophical dimension. The Chorus acknowledges the consequences that await Faustus, stating, "His waxen wings did mount above his reach, / And, melting, heavens conspired his overthrow" (ll. 21-22). This line implies that Faustus's ambitions are not only doomed to fail but that they are also in defiance of the divine order. The language used by the Chorus invites the audience to reflect on the moral implications of Faustus's actions and the dangers of unchecked desires.

In addition to its narrative function, the Chorus's role in the prologue is also performative. The Chorus engages in direct address, speaking directly to the audience and involving them in the events of the play. For example, the Chorus says, "Gentlemen, to you I give my hand, / And pledge me your courteous hand" (ll. 36-37). This interaction establishes a sense of intimacy and rapport between the Chorus and the audience, creating a shared experience and inviting the audience to actively participate in the unfolding tragedy.

In conclusion, the prologue of "Doctor Faustus" is spoken by the Chorus, a character that serves as a narrator and commentator throughout the play. Through the voice of the Chorus, Marlowe establishes the framework for the audience's understanding of the play and provides insights into its themes and moral implications. The Chorus introduces Faustus, highlighting his intellectual prowess, insatiable thirst for knowledge, and his engagement in forbidden practices. The Chorus draws parallels between Faustus and mythological and historical figures, such as Icarus and Adam, emphasizing his hubris, ambition, and moral transgressions. The language used by the Chorus evokes a sense of anticipation, moral contemplation, and engagement with the audience. Overall, the Chorus's presence in the prologue sets the stage for the tragic events that will unfold and invites the audience to reflect on the consequences of human desires and the pursuit of knowledge.

Thank You