The purpose of this research is to identify and analyze the elements of Gothic literature precisely in the work of Christopher Marlowe. This analysis is also based on other studies as well as on the original copy of the book. Initially, we will summarize Marlowe's life and his career as a writer. Rather, the author will focus on a deeper analysis based on the elements of Gothic literature and its periods. Finally, he will take a look in some other information about the work.
Gothic literature is a literary genre that combines fiction, horror, death, and even in some cases romance. Even though Gothic Literature was introduced around the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century in England, the Gothic term itself has its beginnings in the 3rd to 4th century, presenting a German barbarian tribe who invaded Rome, to continue later with other countries. Given the topics that this kind of literature deals with, we can say that it is not sufficiently familiar or widespread. Horace Walpole is thought to be the first author of these genera with his book "The Castle of Otranto", followed by many other authors such as Mary Shelly with "Frankenstein", Bram Stoker with "Dracula" and Christopher Marlowe with "Doctor Faustus".
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
- 1.1. Background of Study
- 1.2. Definition of Terms
- 1.3. Organization of Study
- CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
- 2.1. Marlowe's Life
- 2.2. Critics on Marlowe
- 2.3 "Doctor Faustus" as a morality play.
- CHAPTER 3: ELEMENTS OF GOTHIC AND DOCTOR FAUSTUS
- 3.1. The origin of Faustus legend and damnable life
- 3.2. Elements of Gothic Literature
- 3.3. Elements of Gothic Literature represented on Doctor Faustus
- 3.4. Themes, motifs and symbols
- CHAPTER 4: THREE PART STRUCTURE
- 4.1. Faustus commits himself to evil
- 4.2. Faustus exploits his power
- 4.3. The damnation of Faustus
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This research aims to analyze the elements of Gothic literature within Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus," using both existing scholarship and the original text. The study begins with a brief overview of Marlowe's life and career, followed by a detailed examination of Gothic elements and their manifestation in the play.
- The evolution and characteristics of Gothic literature.
- The life and works of Christopher Marlowe.
- The presence and representation of Gothic elements in "Doctor Faustus."
- The thematic analysis of "Doctor Faustus" through the lens of Gothic literature.
- The three-part structure of "Doctor Faustus" and its thematic implications.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION: This introductory chapter establishes the context for the study by exploring the enduring human fascination with mystery and the development of Gothic literature. It traces the genre's evolution from its medieval origins, marked by elements of crime, religious barbarism, and the supernatural, to its later incorporation of more humanistic themes. The chapter introduces Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus" as a medieval play rich in mysterious and supernatural elements, and outlines its three-part structure: the acquisition of supernatural power, its use, and Faustus's ultimate demise. The chapter concludes by defining key terms like "damnation" and "necromantic books" and details the organization of the subsequent chapters.
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW: This chapter provides biographical information on Christopher Marlowe, highlighting his humble origins and his academic pursuits at Cambridge. It discusses his involvement in espionage for the British Crown and the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death. The chapter also explores critical responses to Marlowe's work, examining his life through the lens of his writings and the controversies they generated. It touches upon the accusations of blasphemy and the challenges to religious orthodoxy prevalent in his life and work. The chapter positions "Doctor Faustus" within the broader context of morality plays, setting the stage for a deeper examination of its Gothic elements.
CHAPTER 3: ELEMENTS OF GOTHIC AND DOCTOR FAUSTUS: This chapter delves into the core of the research by examining the interplay between Gothic literature and Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus." It traces the origins of the Faustus legend and his descent into damnation, analyzing the play's Gothic elements within their historical context. The chapter systematically identifies and explores specific Gothic literary elements present in the play, connecting them to established characteristics of the genre. It further analyzes the play's themes, motifs, and symbols through the lens of Gothic literature, providing a rich tapestry of literary and thematic analysis. The chapter provides detailed explanations and examples, demonstrating a close reading of the text and a deep understanding of Gothic literary conventions.
CHAPTER 4: THREE PART STRUCTURE: This chapter focuses on the three-part structure of "Doctor Faustus": Faustus's pact with evil, his exploitation of his newfound powers, and his ultimate damnation. Each part is examined in detail, highlighting how the three stages of Faustus's life reflect the core tenets of the Gothic genre. The chapter analyzes the dramatic progression of the narrative, showcasing the author’s skill in building suspense and terror while maintaining a cohesive narrative. It explores the thematic resonance of each stage within the overall structure, demonstrating how these three parts work together to create a potent and enduring story.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Gothic literature, Christopher Marlowe, Doctor Faustus, morality play, supernatural, damnation, Renaissance, black magic, themes, motifs, symbols, Gothic elements.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Analysis of Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus"
What is the overall purpose of this document?
This document provides a comprehensive preview of a research paper analyzing the elements of Gothic literature in Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus." It includes a table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords. The preview is designed to give a clear understanding of the research paper's scope and findings.
What are the main chapters covered in the research paper?
The research paper is structured into four chapters: Chapter 1 (Introduction), Chapter 2 (Literature Review), Chapter 3 (Elements of Gothic and Doctor Faustus), and Chapter 4 (Three-Part Structure). Each chapter explores a specific aspect of the play and its connection to Gothic literature.
What are the key objectives and themes of the research?
The research aims to analyze the elements of Gothic literature within "Doctor Faustus." Key themes include the evolution and characteristics of Gothic literature, Marlowe's life and works, the presence of Gothic elements in "Doctor Faustus," a thematic analysis through the lens of Gothic literature, and the three-part structure of the play and its thematic implications.
What does Chapter 1: Introduction cover?
Chapter 1 sets the context by exploring the fascination with mystery and the development of Gothic literature. It introduces "Doctor Faustus" and outlines its three-part structure: the acquisition of power, its use, and Faustus's demise. Key terms are defined, and the organization of the study is detailed.
What is covered in Chapter 2: Literature Review?
Chapter 2 provides biographical information on Marlowe, discusses critical responses to his work, and positions "Doctor Faustus" within the context of morality plays. It examines Marlowe's life, his involvement in espionage, and controversies surrounding his work and death.
What is the focus of Chapter 3: Elements of Gothic and Doctor Faustus?
Chapter 3 delves into the interplay between Gothic literature and "Doctor Faustus." It traces the origins of the Faustus legend, identifies Gothic elements in the play, and analyzes its themes, motifs, and symbols through the lens of Gothic literature.
What does Chapter 4: Three-Part Structure analyze?
Chapter 4 focuses on the three-part structure of "Doctor Faustus": Faustus's pact with evil, his exploitation of power, and his damnation. It examines each part in detail, highlighting how they reflect the Gothic genre and analyzing the dramatic progression and thematic resonance.
What are the key words associated with this research paper?
Key words include Gothic literature, Christopher Marlowe, Doctor Faustus, morality play, supernatural, damnation, Renaissance, black magic, themes, motifs, symbols, and Gothic elements.
What is the target audience for this research?
The target audience is primarily academic, intended for those interested in Gothic literature, Elizabethan drama, and the works of Christopher Marlowe. The research is suitable for students and scholars conducting research in these areas.
Where can I find the complete research paper?
The complete research paper is not included in this preview. This document serves as an overview only. Further information regarding access to the full research paper would need to be obtained from the original source.
- Quote paper
- Romina Dimo (Author), 2017, The Impact of Gothic Literature on Christopher Malowe´s "Doctor Faustus", Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/703407
