Faustus 1.1 | Faustus Embraces The Limitless Possibilites Of Necromancy

Question 1

1.1 “How am I glutted with conceit of this”

Answer 1

Faustus revels in thinking about what necromancy will offer, however, ‘glutted’ implies that he’s already consumed by this idea, foreshadowing his later downfall

Question 2

1.1 ‘His waxen wings did not mount above his reach’

Answer 2

Classical allusion - conveys Faustus’ hubristic desire to transcend the boundaries between mortals & god

Question 3

1.1 ‘A world of profit and delight / of power, of honour, of omnipotence’

Answer 3

Marlowe’s use of listing conveys how Faustus sees necromancy as offering limitless possibilities. The reference to ‘honour’ and ‘omnipotence’ suggests Faustus is driven by glory status and power

Question 4

1.1 ‘Necromantic books are heavenly’

Answer 4

Marlowe’s use of oxymoron conveys Faustus’ mistaken belief that necromancy will bring God-like power. Makes clear that dark arts already corrupted his value and theological understanding

Question 5

1.1 ‘A sound magician is a mighty god’

Answer 5

Marlowe’s use of metaphor conveys how Faustus believes that magic can elevate him to the status of a God