Description
Book Synopsis: Faust Parts I & II - Goethe. A translation into English by A. S. Kline with illustrations by Eugène Delacroix.
Goethe’s two-part dramatic work, Faust, based on a traditional theme, and finally completed in 1831, is an exploration of that restless intellectual and emotional urge which found its fullest expression in the European Romantic movement, to which Goethe was an early and major contributor. Part I of the work outlines a pact Faust makes with the devil, Mephistopheles, and encompasses the tragedy of Gretchen, whom Faust seduces. Part II, developed over a long period of Goethe’s later life, reflects Goethe’s own transition from a predominantly Romantic to a wider world-view and explores more extensive themes, including the values of the Classical past, as it moves towards the work’s resolution.
The protagonist, Faust, is presented in a complex manner, and Goethe’s treatment of the subject matter raises ethical and spiritual issues, many of which are not resolved within the drama itself. Goethe’s stress is on Faust’s striving towards the good, and on the nature of human error, rather than on the traditional Christian view of sin and redemption, and the play’s opening sections and its conclusion can be seen as humanist allegory or metaphor rather than an expression of orthodox religious belief. It is left to the reader to draw their own conclusion about Faust’s everyman character, and the extent to which he earns his ultimate spiritual salvation.
The play had an enormous influence on later German thought and literature, and together with his lyric poetry has ensured Goethe’s place among the great European writers.
Published by Poetry in Translation.
Details
Are you ready for an intellectual and emotional journey? Look no further than Faust: Parts I & II by Goethe. This exceptional translation into English by A. S. Kline, accompanied by stunning illustrations by Eugène Delacroix, brings to life Goethe's timeless masterpiece. Explore the depths of Faust's pact with the devil and the tragic story of Gretchen as you immerse yourself in this exploration of the restlessness and passion of the European Romantic movement. With its thought-provoking themes and complex protagonist, Faust: Parts I & II is a must-read for any lover of literature and philosophy.
Goethe's Faust: Parts I & II will take you on a transformative journey from the Romantic to the Classical past. In Part I, witness Faust's pact with Mephistopheles and watch as he seduces Gretchen, leading to tragedy. Part II, developed over a long period of Goethe's life, delves into more extensive themes and showcases Goethe's transition to a wider world-view. As you travel through the pages, you'll uncover profound ethical and spiritual questions that will leave you pondering long after you've finished reading.
Unlike traditional narratives, Goethe's Faust: Parts I & II challenges the notions of sin and redemption and instead focuses on Faust's relentless pursuit of goodness. This humanist allegory gives you the freedom to interpret Faust's character and determine the extent of his spiritual salvation. By immersing yourself in this literary masterpiece, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the power of human error and the complexities of our own humanity. Join the ranks of readers who have been captivated by Goethe's thought-provoking work and discover why he is hailed as one of Europe's greatest writers.
Don't miss your chance to experience the profound influence that Faust: Parts I & II has had on German thought and literature. Immerse yourself in this captivating tale and indulge in Goethe's lyrical prose. Expand your horizons, challenge your beliefs, and uncover the layers of meaning hidden within these pages. It's time to embark on a journey of enlightenment and self-discovery. Start reading Faust: Parts I & II today and see where it takes you.
Click here to purchase Faust: Parts I & II and embark on this transformative literary adventure!
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