Doctor Faustus The Supernatural Quotes

Here, Faustus uses magic to do something that actually has an impact (beyond entertainment). He rescues a schismatic Pope, Bruno, from the punishment of the Roman Pope, who's more than a little ticked off. Faustus's characterization of the books of the cardinals as "superstitious" shows that he has a typically Protestant attitude toward Catholicism, which means he thinks Catholicism is just a bunch of superstitious nonsense.

Mephistopheles's magic spell lumps the powers of Hell in with the powers of Pagan deities, which makes sense when you consider the belief some folks held that Greco-Roman paganism was simply a manifestation of the Christian Satan. But this fancy spell is all in the name of the rather anticlimactic trick of turning Faustus invisible, just so he can have a little fun at the Pope's expense. Compared to Faustus's rescue of Bruno, this isn't exactly the most exciting, or most noble of feats.

Dick's use of magic to help him steal a cup from the local tavern-keeper occurs just after Faustus has stolen a valuable crown, but also some food and dishes, from the Pope. Once again, the scene reminds us that at the end of the day, the well-educated and ambitious Faustus's goals are pretty similar to those of some simple peasants. At the same time, the ease with which they conjure suggests that Faustus's abilities might not be so rare or special after all.