Theology's Tragic Glass: The Christian Background to Marlowe's Doctor Faustus

Abstract

<p>The aim of this thesis is to present the results of an investigation of some of the typical theological and Biblical sources to which Marlowe had access at the time of writing Doctor Faustus. These selected materials are classed under three principal headings in order to illustrate clearly the varieties of dramatic use to which Marlowe put them. The evidence of deep familiarity with these materials presented here leads to a consideration of the ways in which Marlowe used Christian doctrine as a central element in his play. A final chapter synthesizes the influence of the religious background on the play's meaning and significance.</p>