Marlowe's Language and Style

Marlowe's Language and Style in "Dr. Faustus": A Dive into the Depths of Tragic Ambition

Sept 24, 2023

Introduction

Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus" is a seminal work of Elizabethan drama that showcases the literary brilliance of its author. The play not only explores themes of ambition, knowledge, and the consequences of human desires but also exhibits Marlowe's distinct language and style. In this blog post, we will delve into the unique linguistic features and stylistic choices that make "Dr. Faustus" a captivating masterpiece of English Renaissance literature.

I. Marlowe's Use of Blank Verse

One of the most remarkable features of Marlowe's writing in "Dr. Faustus" is his mastery of blank verse. Blank verse consists of unrhymed lines of iambic pentameter, and Marlowe's use of this form gives the play a sense of grandeur and gravity. It allows for a natural flow of language while maintaining a dignified tone. For instance, in the opening lines of the play, Faustus declares:

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"Settle thy studies, Faustus, and begin

To sound the depth of that thou wilt profess."

The iambic pentameter creates a steady rhythm, drawing the audience into the protagonist's inner turmoil and his fateful decision to delve into the world of magic.

II. The Use of Classical Allusions

Marlowe, a scholar of classical literature, frequently incorporates allusions to Greek and Roman mythology, as well as biblical references, into his text. These allusions not only add depth to the play but also serve to underscore the themes and characterizations. For example, Faustus's aspiration to be "a mighty god" resonates with the classical hubris seen in characters like Prometheus or Icarus, who defied the gods and suffered dire consequences. Marlowe uses these allusions to foreshadow Faustus's tragic fate.

III. The Paradoxical Nature of Faustus's Soliloquies

Marlowe's use of soliloquies in "Dr. Faustus" offers insight into the protagonist's inner turmoil. Faustus's soliloquies are replete with contradictions and inner conflicts. He vacillates between his desire for knowledge and power and his fear of eternal damnation. For instance, in Act I, Scene 5, he says:

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"O, what a world of profit and delight,

Of power, of honor, of omnipotence,

Is promised to the studious artisan!"

These soliloquies reveal Faustus's internal struggle, making him a complex and relatable character.

IV. The Chorus as a Literary Device

Marlowe employs a Chorus in "Dr. Faustus" to comment on the action and provide insight into the moral implications of Faustus's choices. This device adds a layer of metatheatricality to the play and serves as a Greek chorus would, offering guidance and reflection to the audience. The Chorus, often delivered in rhymed quatrains, breaks the dramatic illusion and reminds the audience of the moral lessons at stake.

Conclusion

Christopher Marlowe's "Dr. Faustus" is not only a powerful exploration of human ambition and the consequences of unchecked desires but also a masterpiece of linguistic and stylistic craftsmanship. His use of blank verse, classical allusions, paradoxical soliloquies, and the Chorus all contribute to the enduring appeal and significance of this Elizabethan tragedy. Through his language and style, Marlowe invites us to contemplate the timeless themes of knowledge, power, and the human condition, leaving an indelible mark on the world of English literature.

Marlowe's use of iambic pentameter and blank verse gives the play a formal yet rhythmic quality.

Classical allusions and biblical references enrich the play's thematic depth.

Soliloquies offer insight into Faustus's inner conflict and aspirations.

Metatheatrical elements, like the Chorus, provide commentary on the action.

Marlowe employs rhetorical devices to enhance dramatic tension and irony.

Faustus embodies the classical tragic hero driven by ambition.

The play serves as a morality tale, imparting moral lessons through Faustus's choices.

It adheres to Elizabethan theatrical conventions, including the use of asides and supernatural elements.

Check: https://youtu.be/yjaZlbUieu8