He and Mephostophilis then engage in a conversation about the celestial planets. Faustus despairs and does not atone for his sins under the mistaken assumption that he is too evil for God and heaven. The good angel assures him that if he repents now, God will still accept him, whereas the evil angel tells him that it is impossible for him to repent-it is too late. He then decides to renounce the dark arts. In addition, Mephostophilis gives him books of spells, astrology and nature, much to Faustus's pleasure.Īct 2, scene 1: Faustus complains to Mephostophilis that he has been deceived into selling his soul when he could have enjoyed the wonders of heaven. Instead, the devil promises Faustus a new woman every night and any other girl that pleases his fancy. He then asks Mephostophilis for a wife, but the request is refused since marriage is considered a holy institution. Despite the devil's assurances that there is indeed a hell and that he is the living proof, Faustus scoffs at his words and dismisses the idea of damnation as an old wives' tale. As his first command to Mephostophilis, Faustus questions the reality of hell. He is willing to do anything to obtain Faustus's soul. Mephostophilis quickly conjures up some devils to amuse Faustus and makes him forget his troubles. Faustus eventually signs the deed and officially bequeaths his soul to Lucifer, but is horrified to see the inscription Homo fuge (Fly, oh man) immediately appear on his arm. He wonders if this is a warning for him to proceed no further. Faustus cuts his arm and tries to sign off his soul, but his blood congeals too quickly.

Mephostophilis enters at the stroke of midnight and tells him that Lucifer has agreed to the deal if Faustus will write the deed with his own blood. The evil angel succeeds in being more influential, and leaves Faustus dreaming about riches and power. The good angel tells Faustus that prayer and repentance are the only means of getting to heaven the evil angel retorts that these practices are sheer lunacy. The good and evil angels reenter, both pleading different cases. He is having doubts and wonders if it is too late to repent and turn to God. Act 1, scene 5: Faustus is in his study, awaiting Lucifer who will finalize the surrender of his soul.

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