Characters who make deals with the devil frequently appear in literature and film, such as Nathaniel Hawthorne's "Young Goodman Brown," William Faulkner's "The Hamlet," and movies ranging from Rosemary's Baby to Angel Heart. Examine and compare the themes these works present with those in Marlowe's play. Although they share a similar plot element, the meanings of these stories vary. What do these different narratives reveal about the societies that created them?

Anyone familiar with children knows that one reason they often get into trouble is due to what can be described as their innate curiosity. Some thinkers argue that curiosity is fundamental to our humanity. What drives people to wonder and seek more knowledge? In Marlowe's Doctor Faustus, the quest for knowledge does not lead to happiness. Do you think there should be limits on the pursuit of knowledge? Are there certain things people are not meant to know? The Angels and Chorus in Marlowe's play seem to believe so—do you agree? You might explore issues related to free speech and censorship or controversial scientific research, considering what society deems acceptable to think and communicate.

Most readers of Marlowe's play believe that Doctor Faustus squanders a tremendous opportunity. We denounce his decision to sell his soul to the devil, but we also criticize his failure to make meaningful use of his immense power. If you possessed Faustus's power, what would you do?

Ethicists study the morality of human actions. One recurring question concerns the relationship between goals (ends) and the actions required to achieve them (means). For instance, stealing is wrong, but do we condemn stealing from the wealthy to feed the poor, as Robin Hood did? Injuring someone is wrong, yet surgeons "injure" people daily in their efforts to heal them. In these cases, we might be inclined to say the ends justify the means. If you could perform infinite good for the world, would you sell your soul to the devil? Before answering, consider reading the works of several ethical philosophers. Their perspectives may either help clarify your answer or make your decision even more complex.