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".
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background of Study
1.2. Definition of Terms
1.3. Organization of Study
2. LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1. Marlowe’s life
2.2. Critics on Marlowe
2.3 “Doctor Faustus” as a morality play
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
4. THREE PART STRUCTURE
4.1. Faustus commits himself to evil
4.2. Faustus exploits his power
4.3. The damnation of Faustus
Research Objectives and Themes
This research aims to identify and analyze the specific elements of Gothic literature within Christopher Marlowe's play "Doctor Faustus." By examining the interplay between medieval, Renaissance, and supernatural themes, the study explores how these components contribute to the narrative of Faustus’s damnation.
- The historical context and evolution of Gothic literature.
- The manifestation of Gothic elements in "Doctor Faustus."
- The role of moral conflict and the "seven deadly sins" in the narrative.
- Symbolism related to black magic, power, and religious redemption.
- The play’s three-part structure and its relation to tragic downfall.
Excerpt from the Book
3.2. Elements of Gothic Literature
If we imagine an abandoned castle in the middle of a large forest – that is absolutely scary. What if you had to stand in front of an abandoned fortress, in the middle of a big forest and in the darkness? What if you had to go in that abandoned castle in the middle of the forest, at night and only with a candle in your hand?
According to G. Richard Thomson (Thompson, G. R. 1974), quoted a bit above, we would probably be experiencing a horror scene. Here are represent four of the main elements of Gothic literature: an abandoned place, mainly a castle, dark settings, low lightening and extreme landscapes. (Botting, 1996).This is what Gothic offers: fear and adrenaline.
If we were in such a situation, I believe that most of us would go back to never return, but in our unconscious we would love to reach to the end. What if we had decided to continue our journey within that fortress and feel for a moment that someone is behind us? If we just think about the atmosphere that creates this situation. A massive ghost trying to save his own destiny and that blind around the castle. Exactly, four other elements: magic and supernatural, evil deeds, horrifying events and gloom, mystery, suspense.(Botting, 1996).And in the end, what prevails in that place is nothing more than the four remaining elements, death, decay, darkness and madness (Botting, 1996).
Summary of Chapters
1. INTRODUCTION: Provides the historical background of Gothic literature and outlines the research structure regarding Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus."
2. LITERATURE REVIEW: Examines Marlowe's life, critical perspectives on his work, and characterizes "Doctor Faustus" as a traditional morality play.
3. ELEMENTS OF GOTHIC AND DOCTOR FAUSTUS: Investigates the origins of the Faustus legend and identifies how specific Gothic literary elements and themes are utilized within the play.
4. THREE PART STRUCTURE: Analyzes the narrative trajectory of the play, focusing on Faustus's commitment to evil, his exploitation of power, and his ultimate damnation.
Keywords
Gothic literature, fiction, horror, death, elements of Gothic literature, Horace Walpole, Mary Shelly, Bram Stoker, Christopher Marlowe, Doctor Faustus, black magic, supernatural, morality play, damnation, Renaissance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research paper?
The paper primarily explores the integration of Gothic literary elements within Christopher Marlowe’s play "Doctor Faustus" and analyzes how these elements define the protagonist's tragic journey.
Which key themes are central to the study?
The central themes include the conflict between good and evil, the corrupting influence of power, the pursuit of forbidden knowledge, and the psychological struggle of human conscience.
What is the primary objective of this thesis?
The objective is to identify and examine Gothic motifs in the play, specifically analyzing how the atmosphere, supernatural occurrences, and moral dilemmas reflect the broader historical transition from the medieval period to the Renaissance.
What scientific or academic methods are applied?
The research utilizes a literary analysis approach, drawing upon historical context, scholarly criticism, and a close reading of the original text of "Doctor Faustus."
What content is addressed in the main body of the work?
The main body covers a biographical and critical review of Marlowe, an investigation into the Faustus legend, a detailed breakdown of Gothic elements (such as darkness and supernatural intervention), and a structural analysis of the play’s three acts.
Which keywords best characterize this research?
Essential keywords include Gothic literature, Doctor Faustus, Christopher Marlowe, supernatural, morality play, damnation, and black magic.
How does the author interpret the role of "flight" in the play?
The author interprets "flight" as both a symbol of aspiration and liberation, but crucially, as a cautionary metaphor for the dangers of overreaching and losing one's soul.
In what way does the "Old Man" function in the final act?
The Old Man represents the last opportunity for redemption and divine grace, standing as a moral counterpoint to the influence of Mephistopheles and the temptation of worldly power.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Romina Dimo (Autor:in), 2017, The Impact of Gothic Literature on Christopher Malowe´s "Doctor Faustus", München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/703407
