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The Metamorphosis

2006-04-17T17:24:05Z

Lchilds: /* Study Questions */

==Summary==
Gregory Samsa is a traveling salesman who financially supports his family. He wakes up in the morning to find out he has been transformed into a Dung Beetle. He is in shock after his reality sets in and tries to figure out how he is going to get to work. Although they try to assimilate the change, his family is horrified and keeps Gregory locked in his room. Gregory eventually dies, leaving his family free.

==Study Guide==
*[[The Metamorphosis: Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
*[[The Metamorphosis: Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
*[[The Metamorphosis: Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]

==Major Themes==
===Novella===
Technically a theme, but more of a genre so to speak, that is unknown to most of us present day readers of Kafka is novella. "A novella is a short novel; a narrative work of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prose prose] fiction somewhat longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. A common length is about 50 to 100 pages. The extra length is generally used for more character development than is possible in a short story, but without the much greater character and plot development of a novel. Novellas often are characterized by satire or moral teaching"(Wikipedia).

Satire: This is clearly evident as "[http://litmuse.maconstate.edu/litwiki/index.php/The_Metamorphosis#Summary The Metamorphosis] is obviously a story about alienation. Gregor's life is dictated by his dead-end job and family responsibilities to the extent that even when he travels to different towns, he prefers to stay in his hotel room studying train timetables rather than experience what the new location has to offer. That isolation is mirrored in his relationship with his family, for whom he is the bread-winner but from whom he locks himself away at night. This alienation becomes so pronounced that, one day, he discovers himself to be literally no longer human. Gregor's earlier sentiment is reciprocated when his family begins locking and bolting the door shut behind him in his room. Late in the story, he briefly considers what it means to be 'human'; if he can be so moved by his sister's music then surely he cannot be an animal. And ultimately, his acceptance that he must go shows an act of genuine humanity" (BBC).

Moral Teaching: Try interpreting the story without Gregor's transformation. "In this interpretation, the other characters in the story would not see a man-sized beetle. Instead, they see a man so alienated from reality that he chooses to reject it totally. He is still a man, the same man they saw the previous day, but now he is crawling awkwardly on the floor and squeaking rather than speaking. He would prefer the shame of living as an insect to the hopelessness of living as a man. He would rather live in squalor and eat scraps from the rubbish than deal with the mind-numbing sameness of his life and accept responsibility for changing it. The abhorrence the family displays upon seeing him would still be the same - perhaps it would be even greater if they still just saw a man. They would be forced to accept the situation in the same way; still hoping [http://litmuse.maconstate.edu/litwiki/index.php/The_Metamorphosis#Gregory_Samsa Gregor] will put himself right before finally admitting the man they knew will never return. As nightmarish as the scenario presented in the book is, maybe the only thing worse than inexplicably transforming into a giant bug overnight is wishing you had" (BBC).

==Characters==

===Gregory Samsa===
A traveling salesman responsible for providing for his family. His metamorphosis into a insect leaves a stuggle between his human mind and insect needs.

===Mother===

===Father===

===Grete===
The sister of Gregory Samsa who feeds him and takes care of him.

==Study Questions==
#What sort of bug does Gregory Samsa change into overnight?
#What is the significance of Gregory's job? How does his job effect his family?
#How does the chief clerk from Gregory's job act towards the Samsa's and in general about the entire situation?
#What two people does Gregory think would be the "strongest" and most able to help get him out of bed in the morning? What do you think that this signifies?
#What family member feeds Gregory after he is changed into a bug?
#What is the outside weather like during the "Metamorphosis"? Does this climate help set the mood at all?
#What type of relationship does Gregory have with his sister Meg? How would you describe it?
#How does Gregory die at the end of "The Metamorphosis"?

==External Links==

==Works Cited==

Hughes, Katherine. "Seperate and Alone: Alienation as a Central Theme in Tolstoy's The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Kafka's Metamorphosis." 9 November 2002. 17 April 2006.

[[Category:World Literature]]

The Metamorphosis

2006-04-17T17:20:16Z

Lchilds: /* Characters */

==Summary==
Gregory Samsa is a traveling salesman who financially supports his family. He wakes up in the morning to find out he has been transformed into a Dung Beetle. He is in shock after his reality sets in and tries to figure out how he is going to get to work. Although they try to assimilate the change, his family is horrified and keeps Gregory locked in his room. Gregory eventually dies, leaving his family free.

==Study Guide==
*[[The Metamorphosis: Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
*[[The Metamorphosis: Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
*[[The Metamorphosis: Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]

==Major Themes==
===Novella===
Technically a theme, but more of a genre so to speak, that is unknown to most of us present day readers of Kafka is novella. "A novella is a short novel; a narrative work of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prose prose] fiction somewhat longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. A common length is about 50 to 100 pages. The extra length is generally used for more character development than is possible in a short story, but without the much greater character and plot development of a novel. Novellas often are characterized by satire or moral teaching"(Wikipedia).

Satire: This is clearly evident as "[http://litmuse.maconstate.edu/litwiki/index.php/The_Metamorphosis#Summary The Metamorphosis] is obviously a story about alienation. Gregor's life is dictated by his dead-end job and family responsibilities to the extent that even when he travels to different towns, he prefers to stay in his hotel room studying train timetables rather than experience what the new location has to offer. That isolation is mirrored in his relationship with his family, for whom he is the bread-winner but from whom he locks himself away at night. This alienation becomes so pronounced that, one day, he discovers himself to be literally no longer human. Gregor's earlier sentiment is reciprocated when his family begins locking and bolting the door shut behind him in his room. Late in the story, he briefly considers what it means to be 'human'; if he can be so moved by his sister's music then surely he cannot be an animal. And ultimately, his acceptance that he must go shows an act of genuine humanity" (BBC).

Moral Teaching: Try interpreting the story without Gregor's transformation. "In this interpretation, the other characters in the story would not see a man-sized beetle. Instead, they see a man so alienated from reality that he chooses to reject it totally. He is still a man, the same man they saw the previous day, but now he is crawling awkwardly on the floor and squeaking rather than speaking. He would prefer the shame of living as an insect to the hopelessness of living as a man. He would rather live in squalor and eat scraps from the rubbish than deal with the mind-numbing sameness of his life and accept responsibility for changing it. The abhorrence the family displays upon seeing him would still be the same - perhaps it would be even greater if they still just saw a man. They would be forced to accept the situation in the same way; still hoping [http://litmuse.maconstate.edu/litwiki/index.php/The_Metamorphosis#Gregory_Samsa Gregor] will put himself right before finally admitting the man they knew will never return. As nightmarish as the scenario presented in the book is, maybe the only thing worse than inexplicably transforming into a giant bug overnight is wishing you had" (BBC).

==Characters==

===Gregory Samsa===
A traveling salesman responsible for providing for his family. His metamorphosis into a insect leaves a stuggle between his human mind and insect needs.

===Mother===

===Father===

===Grete===
The sister of Gregory Samsa who feeds him and takes care of him.

==Study Questions==
#What sort of bug does Gregory Samsa change into overnight?
#What is the significance of Gregory's job? How does his job effect his family?
#What two people does Gregory think would be the "strongest" and most able to help get him out of bed in the morning? What do you think this signifies?
#What is the outside weather like during the "Metamorphosis"? Does this climate help set the mood at all?
#What type of relationship does Gregory have with his sister Meg? How would you describe it?
#How does Gregory die at the end of "The Metamorphosis"?

==External Links==

==Works Cited==

Hughes, Katherine. "Seperate and Alone: Alienation as a Central Theme in Tolstoy's The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Kafka's Metamorphosis." 9 November 2002. 17 April 2006.

[[Category:World Literature]]

The Metamorphosis

2006-04-17T16:59:40Z

Lchilds: /* Study Questions */

Kafka

2006-04-17T16:45:56Z

Lchilds: /* Biography */

== Biography ==

Franz Kafka was born in Prague on July 3,1883. Like most authors he was over looked during his short life. He was raised in a middle class Jewish family and had a very strict father that he looked up to. 1901-1906 Kafka studied German literature and received a law degree at a German University in Prague. Kafka then goes to work for the law office of Richard Lowy in Prague and goes back to college for his doctorate degree. This degree gave him the inspiration to write, "Wedding Prepations in the Country". Still not satisfied he began looking for another job and found one in 1908 at the semi-govermental Worker's Accident Insurance Institute where he remained until he retired in 1922. His works were never published until his tragic death. Kafka was a very sick man most of his life. He contacted tuberculosis which made him very weak and feable, it eventually took his life.

==List of Works==
Amerika

The Trial

The Castle

The Metamorphosis

In the Penal Colony

Meditation

The Judgment

The Country Doctor

A Hunger Artist

Description of a Struggle

Wedding Preparations in the Country

The Urban World

A Perfect Fool

Temptation in the Village

Memoirs of the Kalda Railroad

The Village Schoolmaster

Blumfeld, an Elderly Bachelor

The Warden of the Tomb

The Hunter Gracchus

The Great Wall of China

Letter to his Father

The Refusal

Investigations of a Dog

The Burrow

Diaries 1910-1923

Letters

The Blue Octavio Notebooks

==Works Cited==

Nowack, Jeff and Ruch, Allen B. "The Modern World-Franz Kafka". 26 June 2004.17 April 2006 <www.themodernworld.com>.

Mallarme

2006-03-28T22:54:40Z

Lchilds: /* Questions To Think ABout */

[http://www.studiocleo.com/librarie/mallarme/mallarme.html Stéphane Mallarmé] (stāfän' mälärmā'), was born Etienne Mallarmé on March 18, 1842 in Paris, France. Although he was expected to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and join the French civil service, he chose to focus on writing poetry instead. His first attempts at writing were done under the influence of [http://www.lucidcafe.com/library/96feb/hugo.html Victor Hugo]; however, it was not until he came across [http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761571267/Baudelaire.html Charles Baudelaire’s] influential piece [http://fleursdumal.org/toc_1857.php''The Flowers of Evil''] at the age of nineteen that he wrote the Briese Marine, starting with the much quoted line "Le chair est triste, hélas! et j'ai lu tous les livres". His poetry began to appear in magazines shortly after its completion. Soon after, Stepahane left school to visit England, which is also where he met his future wife, Marie Gerhard. Mallarme then went on to teach English from 1864 in Tournon, Besancon, Avignon, and Paris until his retirement in 1893.

Mallarmé was widely known for being the leader of the Symbolist movement with [http://www.littlebluelight.com/lblphp/intro.php?ikey=29 Paul Verlaine]; He was also known for being the center of a group of French writers in Paris along with the likes of [http://nobelprize.org/literature/laureates/1947/gide-bio.html Gide], [http://www.kalin.lm.com/valery.html Valery], and [http://www.library.uiuc.edu/kolbp/proust.html Proust]. In fact, Mallarmé’s idea on poetry and art were considered difficult and obscure; furthermore, he challenged his readers by seeking out the long-forgotten meanings of common words and used these instead of standard convention. According to Mallarmé’s theories, “Nothing lies beyond reality, but within this nothingness lies the essence of perfect forms. It is the task of the poet to reveal and crystallize these essences,” and that “You don’t make a poem with ideas, but with words” ("Stéphane"). Naturally this roused a hostility that followed him throughout his poetic career. Even though he faced many obstacles, Mallarmé still managed to publish numerous pieces including [http://www.studiocleo.com/librarie/mallarme/mallarme.html''The Afternoon of a Faun''], [http://www.geocities.com/rrobbins.geo/mallarme.htm''The Clown Chastised''], and [http://www.geocities.com/rrobbins.geo/mallarme.htm''The Virginal Vibrant and Beautiful Dawn''].

Mallarmé spent most of his life trying to perfect his work; therefore, he had many great pieces left unfinished. His sole focus was to continue putting his literary theories into practice and complete a piece called ''Grand Oeuvre'', or Great Work. Unfortunately he died before reaching his goal: He passed away on September 9, 1898 at the age of 56. However, he will always be known for influencing twentieth century French poetry, and for modernizing German and American poetry.

==Themes==
Absence

Silence

Abstract

Purifying Language

==Questions To Think About==
1. In Mallarme's "Saint", what is the significance of the viol?

2. Why does Mallarme make refernces to the sandalwood window frame in "Saint"? Also, what is the significance of the sandalwood?

3. Why would Mallarme refer to the "musician of silences" in the last line of "Saint"? Who is the musician of silences?

4. What is the purpose of the reference to "Seraphim" in "The Tomb of Edgar Poe"?

5. Why does Mallarme describe Poe's death as being triumphant?

6. Why would Poe's blasphemy be "hurled to the future"(1565)?

7. What is the faun literally doing in Mallarme's "Afternoon of the Faun"?

8. Did the faun actually have an encounter or experience with the nymph's, or was it all just a dream?

Mallarme

2006-03-28T22:54:20Z

Lchilds: /* Themes */

[http://www.studiocleo.com/librarie/mallarme/mallarme.html Stéphane Mallarmé] (stāfän' mälärmā'), was born Etienne Mallarmé on March 18, 1842 in Paris, France. Although he was expected to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and join the French civil service, he chose to focus on writing poetry instead. His first attempts at writing were done under the influence of [http://www.lucidcafe.com/library/96feb/hugo.html Victor Hugo]; however, it was not until he came across [http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761571267/Baudelaire.html Charles Baudelaire’s] influential piece [http://fleursdumal.org/toc_1857.php''The Flowers of Evil''] at the age of nineteen that he wrote the Briese Marine, starting with the much quoted line "Le chair est triste, hélas! et j'ai lu tous les livres". His poetry began to appear in magazines shortly after its completion. Soon after, Stepahane left school to visit England, which is also where he met his future wife, Marie Gerhard. Mallarme then went on to teach English from 1864 in Tournon, Besancon, Avignon, and Paris until his retirement in 1893.

Mallarmé was widely known for being the leader of the Symbolist movement with [http://www.littlebluelight.com/lblphp/intro.php?ikey=29 Paul Verlaine]; He was also known for being the center of a group of French writers in Paris along with the likes of [http://nobelprize.org/literature/laureates/1947/gide-bio.html Gide], [http://www.kalin.lm.com/valery.html Valery], and [http://www.library.uiuc.edu/kolbp/proust.html Proust]. In fact, Mallarmé’s idea on poetry and art were considered difficult and obscure; furthermore, he challenged his readers by seeking out the long-forgotten meanings of common words and used these instead of standard convention. According to Mallarmé’s theories, “Nothing lies beyond reality, but within this nothingness lies the essence of perfect forms. It is the task of the poet to reveal and crystallize these essences,” and that “You don’t make a poem with ideas, but with words” ("Stéphane"). Naturally this roused a hostility that followed him throughout his poetic career. Even though he faced many obstacles, Mallarmé still managed to publish numerous pieces including [http://www.studiocleo.com/librarie/mallarme/mallarme.html''The Afternoon of a Faun''], [http://www.geocities.com/rrobbins.geo/mallarme.htm''The Clown Chastised''], and [http://www.geocities.com/rrobbins.geo/mallarme.htm''The Virginal Vibrant and Beautiful Dawn''].

Mallarmé spent most of his life trying to perfect his work; therefore, he had many great pieces left unfinished. His sole focus was to continue putting his literary theories into practice and complete a piece called ''Grand Oeuvre'', or Great Work. Unfortunately he died before reaching his goal: He passed away on September 9, 1898 at the age of 56. However, he will always be known for influencing twentieth century French poetry, and for modernizing German and American poetry.

==Themes==
Absence

Silence

Abstract

Purifying Language

==Questions To Think ABout==
1. In Mallarme's "Saint", what is the significance of the viol?

2. Why does Mallarme make refernces to the sandalwood window frame in "Saint"? Also, what is the significance of the sandalwood?

3. Why would Mallarme refer to the "musician of silences" in the last line of "Saint"? Who is the musician of silences?

4. What is the purpose of the reference to "Seraphim" in "The Tomb of Edgar Poe"?

5. Why does Mallarme describe Poe's death as being triumphant?

6. Why would Poe's blasphemy be "hurled to the future"(1565)?

7. What is the faun literally doing in Mallarme's "Afternoon of the Faun"?

8. Did the faun actually have an encounter or experience with the nymph's, or was it all just a dream?

Mallarme

2006-03-28T22:46:37Z

Lchilds:

Faust: Faust's Study (2)

2006-02-23T01:09:08Z

Lchilds: /* Works Cited */

==Summary==
In this scene the dialogue is mostly between Mephisto and Faust. Mephisto returns to see Faust in his study. This is when Faust begins to tell how nothing in the world can make him happy. Mephisto then makes a deal with him that he will serve him and help him find happiness. This deal consists of Mephisto being Faust's servant while here on Earth, "but if [they] meet each other there (Hell), why you must do the same for me"(554). In return though, if Faust is found to be completely satisfied, then Faust will die and Mephisto gets his soul. Faust agrees to this, but Mephisto says that he wants something in writing as proof of the deal. Faust seems a little skeptical of the idea, but agrees to it anyway.

==Notes==

To start off "Faust's Study II" the reader hears Faust telling Mephisto to "Come In" three diffrent times beofre Mephisto actually enters. It is said that this is done because this then clarifies Faust's "willingness to become involved in the evil the spirit represents" (Brians). Once Mephisto has entered, Faust realizes that he is dressed extremely nice. He is wearing a "scarlett suit, all over gold braid...a stiff silk cape, a gay cock's feather in [his] cap"(551). This shows that Mephisto is trying to portray himself to Faust as a powerful man.

The deal that Faust and Mephisto make is simple. Mephisto says that he will be Faust's faithful servant here, but if Faust goes to Hell, he must do the same for Mephisto there. Mephisto insists that he must have proof in writing of this agreement, and that it must be signed in blood. Mephisto insists on this blood signature because then Faust "can hardly claim he didn't know what he was getting into, since signing a contract with the Devil in blood is notoriously a damnable thing to do"(Brians). Later on in the scene Mephisto pretends to be Faust when talking to a student. Mephisto writes a Latin phrase on the student's album that translates to "Ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil"(562). Mephisto writing this and telling the student that he got the phrase from his aunt, the snake,this is a hint that he is really evil and a follower of the Devil. We assume that the snake reference refers to the evil serpent in the book of Genesis, in the Bible.

==Commentary==
Throughout this scene the reader sees how Mephisto is in control of Faust. He goes along with everything that Mephisto says. Faust ends up getting himself in a situation that eventually will not turn out in his favor. Erich Heller states that "Faust could only be damned or saved"(Heller 137). Faust, at first, was portrayed as a strong character, but by this point in the story, one will see that he is not. Heller also made the note that "Faust's soul was an unfit object for any clearly stated transaction between Heaven and Hell" (Heller 137).

==Study Questions==
1. What is the significance of Faust asking Mephisto to enter three different times?

2. How is Mephisto dressed?

3. What kind of mood or mindset is Faust in at this time?

4. What kind of agreement or deal do Faust and Mephisto make?

5. What are the consequenes of this deal?

6. What "grotesque" part of Faust is a must, for the deal to be "in writing"?

7. Who does Mephisto pretend to be when talking to the student?

8. From where is the phrase derived that Mephisto writes on the student's album?

9. What does this phrase symbolize?

==External Resources==

==Works Cited==

Brians, Paul. "Study Guide for Goethe's Faust." Department of English, 14 June 1995. Washinton State University, Pullman 99164-5020. 22 February 2006.
<http://www.wsu.edu/brians/hum/>

Heller, Erich. "Goethe: A Collection of Critical Essays." Englewood Cliffs: Prentice Hall, 1968.

Molnar, Geza Von. " Hidden In Plain View: Another Look at Goethe's Faust." The American Society For Eightenth Century Studies. (2002). 469-496.

----
< [[Faust: Faust's Study (1)|Faust's Study (1)]] | [[Faust Summary, Commentary, Notes]] | [[Faust: Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig|Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig]] >

[[Category:World Literature]]

Faust: Faust's Study (2)

2006-02-23T01:02:06Z

Lchilds: /* Study Questions */

==Summary==
In this scene the dialogue is mostly between Mephisto and Faust. Mephisto returns to see Faust in his study. This is when Faust begins to tell how nothing in the world can make him happy. Mephisto then makes a deal with him that he will serve him and help him find happiness. This deal consists of Mephisto being Faust's servant while here on Earth, "but if [they] meet each other there (Hell), why you must do the same for me"(554). In return though, if Faust is found to be completely satisfied, then Faust will die and Mephisto gets his soul. Faust agrees to this, but Mephisto says that he wants something in writing as proof of the deal. Faust seems a little skeptical of the idea, but agrees to it anyway.

==Notes==

To start off "Faust's Study II" the reader hears Faust telling Mephisto to "Come In" three diffrent times beofre Mephisto actually enters. It is said that this is done because this then clarifies Faust's "willingness to become involved in the evil the spirit represents" (Brians). Once Mephisto has entered, Faust realizes that he is dressed extremely nice. He is wearing a "scarlett suit, all over gold braid...a stiff silk cape, a gay cock's feather in [his] cap"(551). This shows that Mephisto is trying to portray himself to Faust as a powerful man.

The deal that Faust and Mephisto make is simple. Mephisto says that he will be Faust's faithful servant here, but if Faust goes to Hell, he must do the same for Mephisto there. Mephisto insists that he must have proof in writing of this agreement, and that it must be signed in blood. Mephisto insists on this blood signature because then Faust "can hardly claim he didn't know what he was getting into, since signing a contract with the Devil in blood is notoriously a damnable thing to do"(Brians). Later on in the scene Mephisto pretends to be Faust when talking to a student. Mephisto writes a Latin phrase on the student's album that translates to "Ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil"(562). Mephisto writing this and telling the student that he got the phrase from his aunt, the snake,this is a hint that he is really evil and a follower of the Devil. We assume that the snake reference refers to the evil serpent in the book of Genesis, in the Bible.

==Commentary==
Throughout this scene the reader sees how Mephisto is in control of Faust. He goes along with everything that Mephisto says. Faust ends up getting himself in a situation that eventually will not turn out in his favor. Erich Heller states that "Faust could only be damned or saved"(Heller 137). Faust, at first, was portrayed as a strong character, but by this point in the story, one will see that he is not. Heller also made the note that "Faust's soul was an unfit object for any clearly stated transaction between Heaven and Hell" (Heller 137).

==Study Questions==
1. What is the significance of Faust asking Mephisto to enter three different times?

2. How is Mephisto dressed?

3. What kind of mood or mindset is Faust in at this time?

4. What kind of agreement or deal do Faust and Mephisto make?

5. What are the consequenes of this deal?

6. What "grotesque" part of Faust is a must, for the deal to be "in writing"?

7. Who does Mephisto pretend to be when talking to the student?

8. From where is the phrase derived that Mephisto writes on the student's album?

9. What does this phrase symbolize?

==External Resources==

==Works Cited==

----
< [[Faust: Faust's Study (1)|Faust's Study (1)]] | [[Faust Summary, Commentary, Notes]] | [[Faust: Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig|Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig]] >

[[Category:World Literature]]

Faust: Faust's Study (2)

2006-02-23T01:01:31Z

Lchilds: /* Study Questions */

==Summary==
In this scene the dialogue is mostly between Mephisto and Faust. Mephisto returns to see Faust in his study. This is when Faust begins to tell how nothing in the world can make him happy. Mephisto then makes a deal with him that he will serve him and help him find happiness. This deal consists of Mephisto being Faust's servant while here on Earth, "but if [they] meet each other there (Hell), why you must do the same for me"(554). In return though, if Faust is found to be completely satisfied, then Faust will die and Mephisto gets his soul. Faust agrees to this, but Mephisto says that he wants something in writing as proof of the deal. Faust seems a little skeptical of the idea, but agrees to it anyway.

==Notes==

To start off "Faust's Study II" the reader hears Faust telling Mephisto to "Come In" three diffrent times beofre Mephisto actually enters. It is said that this is done because this then clarifies Faust's "willingness to become involved in the evil the spirit represents" (Brians). Once Mephisto has entered, Faust realizes that he is dressed extremely nice. He is wearing a "scarlett suit, all over gold braid...a stiff silk cape, a gay cock's feather in [his] cap"(551). This shows that Mephisto is trying to portray himself to Faust as a powerful man.

The deal that Faust and Mephisto make is simple. Mephisto says that he will be Faust's faithful servant here, but if Faust goes to Hell, he must do the same for Mephisto there. Mephisto insists that he must have proof in writing of this agreement, and that it must be signed in blood. Mephisto insists on this blood signature because then Faust "can hardly claim he didn't know what he was getting into, since signing a contract with the Devil in blood is notoriously a damnable thing to do"(Brians). Later on in the scene Mephisto pretends to be Faust when talking to a student. Mephisto writes a Latin phrase on the student's album that translates to "Ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil"(562). Mephisto writing this and telling the student that he got the phrase from his aunt, the snake,this is a hint that he is really evil and a follower of the Devil. We assume that the snake reference refers to the evil serpent in the book of Genesis, in the Bible.

==Commentary==
Throughout this scene the reader sees how Mephisto is in control of Faust. He goes along with everything that Mephisto says. Faust ends up getting himself in a situation that eventually will not turn out in his favor. Erich Heller states that "Faust could only be damned or saved"(Heller 137). Faust, at first, was portrayed as a strong character, but by this point in the story, one will see that he is not. Heller also made the note that "Faust's soul was an unfit object for any clearly stated transaction between Heaven and Hell" (Heller 137).

==Study Questions==
1. What is the significance of Faust asking Mephisto to enter three different times?

2. How is Mephisto dressed?

3.What kind of mood or mindset is Faust in at this time?

4. What kind of agreement or deal do Faust and Mephisto make?

5. What are the consequenes of this deal?

6. What "grotesque" part of Faust is a must, for the deal to be "in writing"?

7. Who does Mephisto pretend pretend to be when talking to the student?

8. From where is the phrase derived that Mephisto writes on the student's album?

9. What does this phrase symbolize?

==External Resources==

==Works Cited==

----
< [[Faust: Faust's Study (1)|Faust's Study (1)]] | [[Faust Summary, Commentary, Notes]] | [[Faust: Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig|Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig]] >

[[Category:World Literature]]

Faust: Faust's Study (2)

2006-02-23T00:55:24Z

Lchilds: /* Commentary */

==Summary==
In this scene the dialogue is mostly between Mephisto and Faust. Mephisto returns to see Faust in his study. This is when Faust begins to tell how nothing in the world can make him happy. Mephisto then makes a deal with him that he will serve him and help him find happiness. This deal consists of Mephisto being Faust's servant while here on Earth, "but if [they] meet each other there (Hell), why you must do the same for me"(554). In return though, if Faust is found to be completely satisfied, then Faust will die and Mephisto gets his soul. Faust agrees to this, but Mephisto says that he wants something in writing as proof of the deal. Faust seems a little skeptical of the idea, but agrees to it anyway.

==Notes==

To start off "Faust's Study II" the reader hears Faust telling Mephisto to "Come In" three diffrent times beofre Mephisto actually enters. It is said that this is done because this then clarifies Faust's "willingness to become involved in the evil the spirit represents" (Brians). Once Mephisto has entered, Faust realizes that he is dressed extremely nice. He is wearing a "scarlett suit, all over gold braid...a stiff silk cape, a gay cock's feather in [his] cap"(551). This shows that Mephisto is trying to portray himself to Faust as a powerful man.

The deal that Faust and Mephisto make is simple. Mephisto says that he will be Faust's faithful servant here, but if Faust goes to Hell, he must do the same for Mephisto there. Mephisto insists that he must have proof in writing of this agreement, and that it must be signed in blood. Mephisto insists on this blood signature because then Faust "can hardly claim he didn't know what he was getting into, since signing a contract with the Devil in blood is notoriously a damnable thing to do"(Brians). Later on in the scene Mephisto pretends to be Faust when talking to a student. Mephisto writes a Latin phrase on the student's album that translates to "Ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil"(562). Mephisto writing this and telling the student that he got the phrase from his aunt, the snake,this is a hint that he is really evil and a follower of the Devil. We assume that the snake reference refers to the evil serpent in the book of Genesis, in the Bible.

==Commentary==
Throughout this scene the reader sees how Mephisto is in control of Faust. He goes along with everything that Mephisto says. Faust ends up getting himself in a situation that eventually will not turn out in his favor. Erich Heller states that "Faust could only be damned or saved"(Heller 137). Faust, at first, was portrayed as a strong character, but by this point in the story, one will see that he is not. Heller also made the note that "Faust's soul was an unfit object for any clearly stated transaction between Heaven and Hell" (Heller 137).

==Study Questions==

==External Resources==

==Works Cited==

----
< [[Faust: Faust's Study (1)|Faust's Study (1)]] | [[Faust Summary, Commentary, Notes]] | [[Faust: Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig|Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig]] >

[[Category:World Literature]]

Faust: Faust's Study (2)

2006-02-23T00:50:50Z

Lchilds: /* Summary */

Faust: Faust's Study (2)

2006-02-23T00:49:26Z

Lchilds: /* Notes */

==Summary==
In this scene the dialogue is mostly between Mophisto and Faust.Mephisto returns to see Faust in his study. This is when Faust begins to tell how nothing in the world can make him happy. Mephisto then makes a deal with him that he will serve him and help him find happiness. This deal consists of Mephisto being Faust's servant while here on Earth, "but if [they] meet each other there(Hell), why you must do the same for me"(554). In return though, if Faust is found to be completely satisfied, then Faust will die and Mephisto gets his soul. Faust agrees to this, but Mephisto says that he wants something in writing as proof of the deal. Faust seems a little skeptical of the idea, but agrees to it anyway.

==Notes==

To start off "Faust's Study II" the reader hears Faust telling Mephisto to "Come In" three diffrent times beofre Mephisto actually enters. It is said that this is done because this then clarifies Faust's "willingness to become involved in the evil the spirit represents" (Brians). Once Mephisto has entered, Faust realizes that he is dressed extremely nice. He is wearing a "scarlett suit, all over gold braid...a stiff silk cape, a gay cock's feather in [his] cap"(551). This shows that Mephisto is trying to portray himself to Faust as a powerful man.

The deal that Faust and Mephisto make is simple. Mephisto says that he will be Faust's faithful servant here, but if Faust goes to Hell, he must do the same for Mephisto there. Mephisto insists that he must have proof in writing of this agreement, and that it must be signed in blood. Mephisto insists on this blood signature because then Faust "can hardly claim he didn't know what he was getting into, since signing a contract with the Devil in blood is notoriously a damnable thing to do"(Brians). Later on in the scene Mephisto pretends to be Faust when talking to a student. Mephisto writes a Latin phrase on the student's album that translates to "Ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil"(562). Mephisto writing this and telling the student that he got the phrase from his aunt, the snake,this is a hint that he is really evil and a follower of the Devil. We assume that the snake reference refers to the evil serpent in the book of Genesis, in the Bible.

==Commentary==

==Study Questions==

==External Resources==

==Works Cited==

----
< [[Faust: Faust's Study (1)|Faust's Study (1)]] | [[Faust Summary, Commentary, Notes]] | [[Faust: Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig|Auerbach's Cellar in Leipzig]] >

[[Category:World Literature]]

Faust: Faust's Study (2)

2006-02-23T00:37:02Z

Lchilds: /* Summary */

Faust

2006-02-21T02:05:42Z

Lchilds: /* Faust */

==Synopsis==
Faust makes a deal with the devil to make his life rich in achievement. He had accomplished so much in his studies, but still felt emptiness in his life. Faust realizes that through all of his hard work that he is alone and has nothing to show for it.

As Faust sits alone in his study and contemplates his life, he is constantly wondering how he fits into the universe. In doing so he conjures up a spirit. When the spirit appears Faust is actually shocked when he realizes what he has done. The spirit is equally surprised. The spirit tells Faust this in stating, “I find Superman! I come at your bidding and you are struck stupid”(528).

Throughout the play we discover that Faust’s father was a doctor that practiced “black magic”. Being highly respected in his village, people looked up to him not only because of his father, but because of his education. This is shown in the play during the Easter celebration, when several of the local peasants are glad to see Faust. He usually didn’t attend such events. Even when the plague hit Faust helped his father, the doctor by removing bodies and the peasants remembered it. They tell Faust that by saying, “Out they carried out many a corpse, but never yours. Much you went through; us you saved and God saved you”(539).

As Faust and Wagner , a student are walking through the village they see a black poodle. Faust immediately suspects that the dog is not what he seems. He thinks the dog is trying to cast a spell over them. Wagner on the other hand tells Faust that it is just a dog and that he should adopt him. Faust takes that black dog home with him, only to find out that he could not stop the dog from barking. Faust couldn’t keep the dog from barking and tells him to leave. The poodle then turns into a demon. Faust then tries to conjure up a spell against the creature and in doing so he states, “ Against such a creature, My first defense”(546). Come to find out, that it is Mephistoples inside the poodle. He was trying to cast a spell over Faust. Mephisto shows Faust his powers and promises Faust that if he joins up with him that he will live a life of privilege and wealth. Mephisto states, “I’ll walk beside you life’s long route, your good companion”(553). Before Mephisto will become Faust loyal companion, he wants Faust to sign a contract with him. Faust tells him that he will do whatever it takes. Mephisto says, “In that case, an agreement is easy. Come, dare it! Come your signature”(554). Faust is a little upset when Mephisto asks him to sign a contract on paper and in blood, but Faust is easily persuaded into believing that it is totally innocent. It is at this time that Faust first suspects his new friend of being more than just your average friendly spirit.

Mephisto decides to show Faust bit of excitement by showing him how fun his new life is going to be. He takes him to a pub. As Mephisto and Faust enter the bar, Mephisto walks with a limp like the Devil with hooven feet. This is noticed by one of the partons in the pub, but is easily dismissed when Mephisto becomes the life of the party. The happy times are quickly over when Mephisto shows a little of his magic. The people in the pub are offended by his magic. They tell Mephisto, “You’ve got nerve, trying out on us stuff like that damned Hocus-pocus”(569)!

Later in the play Faust and Mephisto pas a young lady and immediately Faust becomes infatuated with her. Faust tells Mephisto that he has to have the young lady (Margarete). They devise a scheme to seduce Margarete. Mephisto states, ”This evening you will meet her neighbors”(586). Faust finally gets the chance to be alone with Margarete and she tells him of her life. She basically lost her whole family except for her brother who is a soldier. Margarete plays hard to get because she is scared of Faust, but she finally gives in.

Faust feels betrayed by Mephisto when he tells him that he is wasting his time waiting on Margarete. Mephisto tells Faust that he has deserted Margarete. Faust reassures Margarete that he loves her. Faust then tries to give Margarete’s mother a sleeping potion so they both can be together.

Margarete hears a rumor that a girl in her village has become pregnant. She feels sad because of how she treated the girls. Margarete states, “How full of blame I used to be, how scornful of any girl who got herself into trouble”(600)!

==History==

==Timeline==

==Characters==

===Mephistopheles===

===Faust===
In Goethe's Play, Faust is the protagonist. Immediatly when reading the play, the reader begins to get a sense of who this character is. Faust is man who believes in Heaven and in Hell, and also that there is a higher being, God, and the Devil. Faust is thought to be a smart, well-learned man by many. Though he seems to be intelligent, Faust is a bit nieve. For example when Mephisto is attempting to strike up a deal with him for being his "servant", Faust assumes that Mephisto will just trust that he will keep his word. But Mephisto insists that there be in writing some sort of proof of their agreement. Also, when Mephisto and Faust are walking through the dark and come across the black poodle, Faust has some sort of strange feeling about the dog, but is quickly convinced nothing of it and Mephisto talks him into taking the dog home with him. Soon after this the poodle begins getting larger and frightening. Mephisto then appears "out of" the dog.

===Wagner===

===Margarete===

===Siebel===

===Altmayer===

===Frosch===

===Marthe===

===Gretchen===

===Lieschen===

==Themes==

===Urge for Knowledge===
The most significant theme in ''Faust'' is the drive for humankind to understand what they do not know. Faust, in a way, is representing all of the human race: "He is able to distinguish between good and evil, right and wrong, but must make errors before he can learn and grow" (Campbell 257). The human is naturally inquizative about the world and the universe. Faust is unhappy beause he can not find the answers to life, and he even contemplates suicide to end his despair. It is his " urge for knowledge" that is the driving force behind the play. If he wasn't curiuos about the world then the devil would have not made a wager with God to display than human are unhappy because of their intelligence.

==References in Popular Culture==
===Devil===
Mephistopheles is Goethe's devil. The devil is a fallen angel that became evil.

===Easter===
Easter symbolizes rebirth of Christ. The bells begin to chime and the chorus begins singing songs of praise right at the time Faist is about to drink posion to kill himself. By hearing the chorus, Faust comes out of his stuper and does not go through with the act. This is like rebirth; Faust was so close to death but then he comes back to reality.

==Critical Perspectives==

Just as Satin tempts Faust he also tempts priests. Faust is tempted by the devil. The devil is willing to do anything for Faust to make him happy except make moral decisions. The devil becomes Faust’s servant. He does so to get Faust’s soul, this occurs when Faust is finally truly happy. As soon as Faust becomes happy he will die and the devil will get his soul. Priests are also tempted by the devil in the way of their vow for celibacy. Many priests are sexually tempted to sin and indulge their mortal yearning. Although they know that this indulgence is sin, the devil makes the opportunity appear very promising and pleasurable. Faust has the same problem; the devil says he will do anything for him to please him. Faust believes he can withstand the devil’s temptations to become perfectly happy so he accepts the devil’s challenge. Faust begins with having the devil make him young again and then he sees a beautiful young lady and demands that she be his. Then failing to see the devil’s trickery, he gives in to the devil’s demise and “deflowers” her and she becomes pregnant. Faust then leaves and she goes crazy in her jail cell. Priests are often subjected to public reproach after committing their sins. Faust’s sin was not the sin that the lord and the devil bet on. Faust did not find a moment that he wanted to linger. The devil fails to tempt Faust enough to take his soul.

==External Links and Resources==
* [[Faust Summary]]
* [http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/hum_303/faust.html Study Guide for Goethe's Faust]
* [http://web.cocc.edu/cagatucci/classes/eng109/FaustSG.htm Faust Study Guide]
* Another [http://novaonline.nvcc.edu/eli/eng252/fauststudy.htm Faust Study Guide]
* [http://www.pinkmonkey.com/booknotes/barrons/faust122.asp Booknotes on Faust]

==Works Cited==

[[Category:World Literature]]

Faust

2006-02-21T01:55:45Z

Lchilds: /* Characters */

==Synopsis==
Faust makes a deal with the devil to make his life rich in achievement. He had accomplished so much in his studies, but still felt emptiness in his life. Faust realizes that through all of his hard work that he is alone and has nothing to show for it.

As Faust sits alone in his study and contemplates his life, he is constantly wondering how he fits into the universe. In doing so he conjures up a spirit. When the spirit appears Faust is actually shocked when he realizes what he has done. The spirit is equally surprised. The spirit tells Faust this in stating, “I find Superman! I come at your bidding and you are struck stupid”(528).

Throughout the play we discover that Faust’s father was a doctor that practiced “black magic”. Being highly respected in his village, people looked up to him not only because of his father, but because of his education. This is shown in the play during the Easter celebration, when several of the local peasants are glad to see Faust. He usually didn’t attend such events. Even when the plague hit Faust helped his father, the doctor by removing bodies and the peasants remembered it. They tell Faust that by saying, “Out they carried out many a corpse, but never yours. Much you went through; us you saved and God saved you”(539).

As Faust and Wagner , a student are walking through the village they see a black poodle. Faust immediately suspects that the dog is not what he seems. He thinks the dog is trying to cast a spell over them. Wagner on the other hand tells Faust that it is just a dog and that he should adopt him. Faust takes that black dog home with him, only to find out that he could not stop the dog from barking. Faust couldn’t keep the dog from barking and tells him to leave. The poodle then turns into a demon. Faust then tries to conjure up a spell against the creature and in doing so he states, “ Against such a creature, My first defense”(546). Come to find out, that it is Mephistoples inside the poodle. He was trying to cast a spell over Faust. Mephisto shows Faust his powers and promises Faust that if he joins up with him that he will live a life of privilege and wealth. Mephisto states, “I’ll walk beside you life’s long route, your good companion”(553). Before Mephisto will become Faust loyal companion, he wants Faust to sign a contract with him. Faust tells him that he will do whatever it takes. Mephisto says, “In that case, an agreement is easy. Come, dare it! Come your signature”(554). Faust is a little upset when Mephisto asks him to sign a contract on paper and in blood, but Faust is easily persuaded into believing that it is totally innocent. It is at this time that Faust first suspects his new friend of being more than just your average friendly spirit.

Mephisto decides to show Faust bit of excitement by showing him how fun his new life is going to be. He takes him to a pub. As Mephisto and Faust enter the bar, Mephisto walks with a limp like the Devil with hooven feet. This is noticed by one of the partons in the pub, but is easily dismissed when Mephisto becomes the life of the party. The happy times are quickly over when Mephisto shows a little of his magic. The people in the pub are offended by his magic. They tell Mephisto, “You’ve got nerve, trying out on us stuff like that damned Hocus-pocus”(569)!

Later in the play Faust and Mephisto pas a young lady and immediately Faust becomes infatuated with her. Faust tells Mephisto that he has to have the young lady (Margarete). They devise a scheme to seduce Margarete. Mephisto states, ”This evening you will meet her neighbors”(586). Faust finally gets the chance to be alone with Margarete and she tells him of her life. She basically lost her whole family except for her brother who is a soldier. Margarete plays hard to get because she is scared of Faust, but she finally gives in.

Faust feels betrayed by Mephisto when he tells him that he is wasting his time waiting on Margarete. Mephisto tells Faust that he has deserted Margarete. Faust reassures Margarete that he loves her. Faust then tries to give Margarete’s mother a sleeping potion so they both can be together.

Margarete hears a rumor that a girl in her village has become pregnant. She feels sad because of how she treated the girls. Margarete states, “How full of blame I used to be, how scornful of any girl who got herself into trouble”(600)!

==History==

==Timeline==

==Characters==

===Mephistopheles===

===Faust===

===Wagner===

===Margarete===

===Siebel===

===Altmayer===

===Frosch===

===Marthe===

===Gretchen===

===Lieschen===

==Themes==

===Urge for Knowledge===
The most significant theme in ''Faust'' is the drive for humankind to understand what they do not know. Faust, in a way, is representing all of the human race: "He is able to distinguish between good and evil, right and wrong, but must make errors before he can learn and grow" (Campbell 257). The human is naturally inquizative about the world and the universe. Faust is unhappy beause he can not find the answers to life, and he even contemplates suicide to end his despair. It is his " urge for knowledge" that is the driving force behind the play. If he wasn't curiuos about the world then the devil would have not made a wager with God to display than human are unhappy because of their intelligence.

==References in Popular Culture==
===Devil===
Mephistopheles is Goethe's devil. The devil is a fallen angel that became evil.

===Easter===
Easter symbolizes rebirth of Christ. The bells begin to chime and the chorus begins singing songs of praise right at the time Faist is about to drink posion to kill himself. By hearing the chorus, Faust comes out of his stuper and does not go through with the act. This is like rebirth; Faust was so close to death but then he comes back to reality.

==Critical Perspectives==

Just as Satin tempts Faust he also tempts priests. Faust is tempted by the devil. The devil is willing to do anything for Faust to make him happy except make moral decisions. The devil becomes Faust’s servant. He does so to get Faust’s soul, this occurs when Faust is finally truly happy. As soon as Faust becomes happy he will die and the devil will get his soul. Priests are also tempted by the devil in the way of their vow for celibacy. Many priests are sexually tempted to sin and indulge their mortal yearning. Although they know that this indulgence is sin, the devil makes the opportunity appear very promising and pleasurable. Faust has the same problem; the devil says he will do anything for him to please him. Faust believes he can withstand the devil’s temptations to become perfectly happy so he accepts the devil’s challenge. Faust begins with having the devil make him young again and then he sees a beautiful young lady and demands that she be his. Then failing to see the devil’s trickery, he gives in to the devil’s demise and “deflowers” her and she becomes pregnant. Faust then leaves and she goes crazy in her jail cell. Priests are often subjected to public reproach after committing their sins. Faust’s sin was not the sin that the lord and the devil bet on. Faust did not find a moment that he wanted to linger. The devil fails to tempt Faust enough to take his soul.

==External Links and Resources==
* [[Faust Summary]]
* [http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/hum_303/faust.html Study Guide for Goethe's Faust]
* [http://web.cocc.edu/cagatucci/classes/eng109/FaustSG.htm Faust Study Guide]
* Another [http://novaonline.nvcc.edu/eli/eng252/fauststudy.htm Faust Study Guide]
* [http://www.pinkmonkey.com/booknotes/barrons/faust122.asp Booknotes on Faust]

==Works Cited==

[[Category:World Literature]]

Faust

2006-02-21T01:42:14Z

Lchilds: /* Timeline */

==Synopsis==
Faust makes a deal with the devil to make his life rich in achievement. He had accomplished so much in his studies, but still felt emptiness in his life. Faust realizes that through all of his hard work that he is alone and has nothing to show for it.

As Faust sits alone in his study and contemplates his life, he is constantly wondering how he fits into the universe. In doing so he conjures up a spirit. When the spirit appears Faust is actually shocked when he realizes what he has done. The spirit is equally surprised. The spirit tells Faust this in stating, “I find Superman! I come at your bidding and you are struck stupid”(528).

Throughout the play we discover that Faust’s father was a doctor that practiced “black magic”. Being highly respected in his village, people looked up to him not only because of his father, but because of his education. This is shown in the play during the Easter celebration, when several of the local peasants are glad to see Faust. He usually didn’t attend such events. Even when the plague hit Faust helped his father, the doctor by removing bodies and the peasants remembered it. They tell Faust that by saying, “Out they carried out many a corpse, but never yours. Much you went through; us you saved and God saved you”(539).

As Faust and Wagner , a student are walking through the village they see a black poodle. Faust immediately suspects that the dog is not what he seems. He thinks the dog is trying to cast a spell over them. Wagner on the other hand tells Faust that it is just a dog and that he should adopt him. Faust takes that black dog home with him, only to find out that he could not stop the dog from barking. Faust couldn’t keep the dog from barking and tells him to leave. The poodle then turns into a demon. Faust then tries to conjure up a spell against the creature and in doing so he states, “ Against such a creature, My first defense”(546). Come to find out, that it is Mephistoples inside the poodle. He was trying to cast a spell over Faust. Mephisto shows Faust his powers and promises Faust that if he joins up with him that he will live a life of privilege and wealth. Mephisto states, “I’ll walk beside you life’s long route, your good companion”(553). Before Mephisto will become Faust loyal companion, he wants Faust to sign a contract with him. Faust tells him that he will do whatever it takes. Mephisto says, “In that case, an agreement is easy. Come, dare it! Come your signature”(554). Faust is a little upset when Mephisto asks him to sign a contract on paper and in blood, but Faust is easily persuaded into believing that it is totally innocent. It is at this time that Faust first suspects his new friend of being more than just your average friendly spirit.

Mephisto decides to show Faust bit of excitement by showing him how fun his new life is going to be. He takes him to a pub. As Mephisto and Faust enter the bar, Mephisto walks with a limp like the Devil with hooven feet. This is noticed by one of the partons in the pub, but is easily dismissed when Mephisto becomes the life of the party. The happy times are quickly over when Mephisto shows a little of his magic. The people in the pub are offended by his magic. They tell Mephisto, “You’ve got nerve, trying out on us stuff like that damned Hocus-pocus”(569)!

Later in the play Faust and Mephisto pas a young lady and immediately Faust becomes infatuated with her. Faust tells Mephisto that he has to have the young lady (Margarete). They devise a scheme to seduce Margarete. Mephisto states, ”This evening you will meet her neighbors”(586). Faust finally gets the chance to be alone with Margarete and she tells him of her life. She basically lost her whole family except for her brother who is a soldier. Margarete plays hard to get because she is scared of Faust, but she finally gives in.

Faust feels betrayed by Mephisto when he tells him that he is wasting his time waiting on Margarete. Mephisto tells Faust that he has deserted Margarete. Faust reassures Margarete that he loves her. Faust then tries to give Margarete’s mother a sleeping potion so they both can be together.

Margarete hears a rumor that a girl in her village has become pregnant. She feels sad because of how she treated the girls. Margarete states, “How full of blame I used to be, how scornful of any girl who got herself into trouble”(600)!

==History==

==Timeline==

==Characters==

Mephistopheles

Faust

Wagner

Margarete

Siebel

Altmayer

Frosch

Marthe

Gretchen

Lieschen

==Themes==

===Urge for Knowledge===
The most significant theme in ''Faust'' is the drive for humankind to understand what they do not know. Faust, in a way, is representing all of the human race: "He is able to distinguish between good and evil, right and wrong, but must make errors before he can learn and grow" (Campbell 257). The human is naturally inquizative about the world and the universe. Faust is unhappy beause he can not find the answers to life, and he even contemplates suicide to end his despair. It is his " urge for knowledge" that is the driving force behind the play. If he wasn't curiuos about the world then the devil would have not made a wager with God to display than human are unhappy because of their intelligence.

==References in Popular Culture==
===Devil===
Mephistopheles is Goethe's devil. The devil is a fallen angel that became evil.

===Easter===
Easter symbolizes rebirth of Christ. The bells begin to chime and the chorus begins singing songs of praise right at the time Faist is about to drink posion to kill himself. By hearing the chorus, Faust comes out of his stuper and does not go through with the act. This is like rebirth; Faust was so close to death but then he comes back to reality.

==Critical Perspectives==

Just as Satin tempts Faust he also tempts priests. Faust is tempted by the devil. The devil is willing to do anything for Faust to make him happy except make moral decisions. The devil becomes Faust’s servant. He does so to get Faust’s soul, this occurs when Faust is finally truly happy. As soon as Faust becomes happy he will die and the devil will get his soul. Priests are also tempted by the devil in the way of their vow for celibacy. Many priests are sexually tempted to sin and indulge their mortal yearning. Although they know that this indulgence is sin, the devil makes the opportunity appear very promising and pleasurable. Faust has the same problem; the devil says he will do anything for him to please him. Faust believes he can withstand the devil’s temptations to become perfectly happy so he accepts the devil’s challenge. Faust begins with having the devil make him young again and then he sees a beautiful young lady and demands that she be his. Then failing to see the devil’s trickery, he gives in to the devil’s demise and “deflowers” her and she becomes pregnant. Faust then leaves and she goes crazy in her jail cell. Priests are often subjected to public reproach after committing their sins. Faust’s sin was not the sin that the lord and the devil bet on. Faust did not find a moment that he wanted to linger. The devil fails to tempt Faust enough to take his soul.

==External Links and Resources==
* [[Faust Summary]]
* [http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/hum_303/faust.html Study Guide for Goethe's Faust]
* [http://web.cocc.edu/cagatucci/classes/eng109/FaustSG.htm Faust Study Guide]
* Another [http://novaonline.nvcc.edu/eli/eng252/fauststudy.htm Faust Study Guide]
* [http://www.pinkmonkey.com/booknotes/barrons/faust122.asp Booknotes on Faust]

==Works Cited==

[[Category:World Literature]]

Voltaire

2006-02-08T02:05:05Z

Lchilds: /* Themes */

==Biography==

Voltaire was born François-Marie Arouet on November 21, 1694 in Paris, France. He was the son of Francois Arouet, a minor treasury official, and Marie Marguerite D’Aumard. Upon his birth, it was thought that he would not live very long, so a priest came to baptize him immediately, hoping to save his soul (Darrow). During this time, France was close to bankruptcy and was basically run under the rule of one church. The church in itself set a standard of beliefs that must be followed explicitly, at least in all outward appearances. Literature questioning the church's accepted practices would be deemed heretic and destroyed, the author most likely suffering the same fate (Darrow). Thus, Voltaire had plenty to write about in his works.

His early education was the responsibility of an irreligious priest named Chateauneuf, who tired to keep Voltaire's mind free of the superstition of the times (Darrow). Near age 10, Voltaire was sent away to a boys' school, where the the first stages of his writing began. Later, Voltaire's father decided that his son should be an attorney, even though Voltaire had already expressed his desire to write. His father said, "Literature is the profession of the man who wishes to be useless to society, and a burden to his relatives, and to die of hunger" (Darrow). However, Voltaire did not die of hunger or become a burden on society. Instead his works often provided great social sommentary, and mocked society and its accepted practices. Because of the nature of his works, Voltaire became a semi-regular inmate at the Bastille.

Voltaire spent most of his life in Paris, until his exile to England by Chevalier de Rohan, a nobleman. While in exile, Voltaire was greatly impressed with the monarch system which England used. He liked the freedoms he had there in speech and religion. Voltaire wrote a “fictional document about the English government entitled the Lettres philosophiques (Philosophical letters on the English)”(1). Voltaire created much controversy with this document being as it shined upon the English system being more advanced than the French system, especially in the areas of religion.

After many years of moving and writing/experimenting with Marquise du Châtelet about natural sciences, Voltaire returned to Paris. It had been twenty-eight years since his last visit to Paris. After seeing one of his own plays being preformed he started writing another tragedy, ''Irene''. He wrote until he became ill and died in 1778. Upon his deathbed, Voltaire ended his long strife with the church by making a final confession in order to be buried on hallowed ground. The church, however, was not so forgiving and refused to allow his remains to be buried on sanctified grounds, but the body had already been buried. “He was buried in the Abbey of Scellères, and his body was transferred to the Panthéon on July 10, 1791, during the French Revolution. In 1814, after the first fall of Napoleon and the restoration of the House of Bourbon monarchy, Voltaire's bones were removed from the Pantheon and destroyed. His heart is preserved at La Comedie Francaise”(1). Fifty years passed before the desecration of Voltaire's remains was discovered. By that time his brain had been sold at auction and somewhere along the way, disappeared (IMDB).

==Themes==
1.Sexual Exploitation

2.Resurection

All throughout ''Candide'' we see characters being "resurrected". For example, Cunegonde's brother, the Jesuit Baron, is resurrected at the end of the story and also Master Pangloss. Both of these men had supposably been killed earlier on in the story but show up in the end. Candide was to have killed the baron with his sword when he slit his chest open. Pangloss was to have been hung and then burned, but got rescued from the actual burning. The rope that was around his neck was not tight enough, therefore he was still breathing. Also, Candide was badly beat but survived and was nursed back to health. The entire story is really an example of resurrection because everyone was seperated at some point, but all of the main characters end up reunited back together.

3.Poverty

In the story ''Candide'' almost everyone in the story is or at once in the clutches of poverty. This seems to be a vice that no one can escape. At one point in the story Candide has supper with six people that used to be kings. Now they were all stripped of their glory and reduced to taking handouts. The old woman that helped Cunegonde was a wealthy princess at one time and also reduced down to slavery. Maybe Voltaire's use of this theme was to show how bad poverty was during his lifetime. He might have felt he could show people how poverty effects those that have to endure it.

4.Immorality

==Works==
* [[Candide]]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Letters_on_the_English Letters on the English]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zadig Zadig]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Micromegas Micromegas]

==Historical Context==

==Resources==

[http://www.encyclopedia.com/html/section/Voltaire_Voltaire'sLifeandWorks.asp Voltaire at encyclopedia.com]

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire at Wikipedia]

==Works Cited==

[[Category:World Literature]]
1. "Biography for Voltaire." 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0901806/bio]

2. Darrow, Clarence. ''Voltaire''. 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.positiveatheism.org/hist/darrow5.htm]

3. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire] "Voltaire." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 5 Feb 2006

Voltaire

2006-02-08T02:04:41Z

Lchilds: /* Themes */

==Biography==

Voltaire was born François-Marie Arouet on November 21, 1694 in Paris, France. He was the son of Francois Arouet, a minor treasury official, and Marie Marguerite D’Aumard. Upon his birth, it was thought that he would not live very long, so a priest came to baptize him immediately, hoping to save his soul (Darrow). During this time, France was close to bankruptcy and was basically run under the rule of one church. The church in itself set a standard of beliefs that must be followed explicitly, at least in all outward appearances. Literature questioning the church's accepted practices would be deemed heretic and destroyed, the author most likely suffering the same fate (Darrow). Thus, Voltaire had plenty to write about in his works.

His early education was the responsibility of an irreligious priest named Chateauneuf, who tired to keep Voltaire's mind free of the superstition of the times (Darrow). Near age 10, Voltaire was sent away to a boys' school, where the the first stages of his writing began. Later, Voltaire's father decided that his son should be an attorney, even though Voltaire had already expressed his desire to write. His father said, "Literature is the profession of the man who wishes to be useless to society, and a burden to his relatives, and to die of hunger" (Darrow). However, Voltaire did not die of hunger or become a burden on society. Instead his works often provided great social sommentary, and mocked society and its accepted practices. Because of the nature of his works, Voltaire became a semi-regular inmate at the Bastille.

Voltaire spent most of his life in Paris, until his exile to England by Chevalier de Rohan, a nobleman. While in exile, Voltaire was greatly impressed with the monarch system which England used. He liked the freedoms he had there in speech and religion. Voltaire wrote a “fictional document about the English government entitled the Lettres philosophiques (Philosophical letters on the English)”(1). Voltaire created much controversy with this document being as it shined upon the English system being more advanced than the French system, especially in the areas of religion.

After many years of moving and writing/experimenting with Marquise du Châtelet about natural sciences, Voltaire returned to Paris. It had been twenty-eight years since his last visit to Paris. After seeing one of his own plays being preformed he started writing another tragedy, ''Irene''. He wrote until he became ill and died in 1778. Upon his deathbed, Voltaire ended his long strife with the church by making a final confession in order to be buried on hallowed ground. The church, however, was not so forgiving and refused to allow his remains to be buried on sanctified grounds, but the body had already been buried. “He was buried in the Abbey of Scellères, and his body was transferred to the Panthéon on July 10, 1791, during the French Revolution. In 1814, after the first fall of Napoleon and the restoration of the House of Bourbon monarchy, Voltaire's bones were removed from the Pantheon and destroyed. His heart is preserved at La Comedie Francaise”(1). Fifty years passed before the desecration of Voltaire's remains was discovered. By that time his brain had been sold at auction and somewhere along the way, disappeared (IMDB).

==Themes==
1.Sexual Exploitation

2.Resurection

All throughout ''Candide'' we see characters being "resurrected". For example, Cunegonde's brother, the Jesuit Baron, is resurrected at the end of the story and also Master Pangloss. Both of these men had supposably been killed earlier on in the story but show up in the end. Candide was to have killed the baron with his sword when he slit his chest open. Pangloss was to have been hung and then burned, but got rescued from the actual burning. The rope that was around his neck was not tight enough, therefore he was still breathing. Also, Candide was badly beat but survived and was nursed back to health. The entire story is really an example of resurrection because everyone was seperated at some point, but all of the main characters end up reunited back together.

3.Poverty

In the story Candide almost everyone in the story is or at once in the clutches of poverty. This seems to be a vice that no one can escape. At one point in the story Candide has supper with six people that used to be kings. Now they were all stripped of their glory and reduced to taking handouts. The old woman that helped Cunegonde was a wealthy princess at one time and also reduced down to slavery. Maybe Voltaire's use of this theme was to show how bad poverty was during his lifetime. He might have felt he could show people how poverty effects those that have to endure it.

4.Immorality

==Works==
* [[Candide]]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Letters_on_the_English Letters on the English]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zadig Zadig]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Micromegas Micromegas]

==Historical Context==

==Resources==

[http://www.encyclopedia.com/html/section/Voltaire_Voltaire'sLifeandWorks.asp Voltaire at encyclopedia.com]

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire at Wikipedia]

==Works Cited==

[[Category:World Literature]]
1. "Biography for Voltaire." 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0901806/bio]

2. Darrow, Clarence. ''Voltaire''. 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.positiveatheism.org/hist/darrow5.htm]

3. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire] "Voltaire." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 5 Feb 2006

Voltaire

2006-02-08T00:01:43Z

Lchilds: /* Themes */

==Biography==

Voltaire was born François-Marie Arouet on November 21, 1694 in Paris, France. He was the son of Francois Arouet, a minor treasury official, and Marie Marguerite D’Aumard. Upon his birth, it was thought that he would not live very long, so a priest came to baptize him immediately, hoping to save his soul (Darrow). During this time, France was close to bankruptcy and was basically run under the rule of one church. The church in itself set a standard of beliefs that must be followed explicitly, at least in all outward appearances. Literature questioning the church's accepted practices would be deemed heretic and destroyed, the author most likely suffering the same fate (Darrow). Thus, Voltaire had plenty to write about in his works.

His early education was the responsibility of an irreligious priest named Chateauneuf, who tired to keep Voltaire's mind free of the superstition of the times (Darrow). Near age 10, Voltaire was sent away to a boys' school, where the the first stages of his writing began. Later, Voltaire's father decided that his son should be an attorney, even though Voltaire had already expressed his desire to write. His father said, "Literature is the profession of the man who wishes to be useless to society, and a burden to his relatives, and to die of hunger" (Darrow). However, Voltaire did not die of hunger or become a burden on society. Instead his works often provided great social sommentary, and mocked society and its accepted practices. Because of the nature of his works, Voltaire became a semi-regular inmate at the Bastille.

Voltaire spent most of his life in Paris, until his exile to England by Chevalier de Rohan, a nobleman. While in exile, Voltaire was greatly impressed with the monarch system which England used. He liked the freedoms he had there in speech and religion. Voltaire wrote a “fictional document about the English government entitled the Lettres philosophiques (Philosophical letters on the English)”(1). Voltaire created much controversy with this document being as it shined upon the English system being more advanced than the French system, especially in the areas of religion.

After many years of moving and writing/experimenting with Marquise du Châtelet about natural sciences, Voltaire returned to Paris. It had been twenty-eight years since his last visit to Paris. After seeing one of his own plays being preformed he started writing another tragedy, ''Irene''. He wrote until he became ill and died in 1778. Upon his deathbed, Voltaire ended his long strife with the church by making a final confession in order to be buried on hallowed ground. The church, however, was not so forgiving and refused to allow his remains to be buried on sanctified grounds, but the body had already been buried. “He was buried in the Abbey of Scellères, and his body was transferred to the Panthéon on July 10, 1791, during the French Revolution. In 1814, after the first fall of Napoleon and the restoration of the House of Bourbon monarchy, Voltaire's bones were removed from the Pantheon and destroyed. His heart is preserved at La Comedie Francaise”(1). Fifty years passed before the desecration of Voltaire's remains was discovered. By that time his brain had been sold at auction and somewhere along the way, disappeared (IMDB).

==Themes==
1.Sexual Exploitation

2.Resurection

All throughout Candide we see characters being "resurrected". For example, Cunegonde's brother, the Jesuit Baron, is resurrected at the end of the story and also Master Pangloss. Both of these men had supposably been killed earlier on in the story but show up in the end. Candide was to have killed the baron with his sword when he slit his chest open. Pangloss was to have been hung and then burned, but got rescued from the actual burning. The rope that was around his neck was not tight enough, therefore he was still breathing. Also, Candide was badly beat but survived and was nursed back to health. The entire story is really an example of resurrection because everyone was seperated at some point, but all of the main characters end up reunited back together.

3.Poverty

4.Immorality

==Works==
* [[Candide]]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Letters_on_the_English Letters on the English]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zadig Zadig]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Micromegas Micromegas]

==Historical Context==

==Resources==

[http://www.encyclopedia.com/html/section/Voltaire_Voltaire'sLifeandWorks.asp Voltaire at encyclopedia.com]

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire at Wikipedia]

==Works Cited==

[[Category:World Literature]]
1. "Biography for Voltaire." 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0901806/bio]

2. Darrow, Clarence. ''Voltaire''. 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.positiveatheism.org/hist/darrow5.htm]

3. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire] "Voltaire." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 5 Feb 2006

Voltaire

2006-02-07T00:30:19Z

Lchilds:

==Biography==

Voltaire was born François-Marie Arouet on November 21, 1694 in Paris, France. He was the son of Francois Arouet, a minor treasury official, and Marie Marguerite D’Aumard. Upon his birth, it was thought that he would not live very long, so a priest came to baptize him immediately, hoping to save his soul (Darrow). During this time, France was close to bankruptcy and was basically run under the rule of one church. The church in itself set a standard of beliefs that must be followed explicitly, at least in all outward appearances. Literature questioning the church's accepted practices would be deemed heretic and destroyed, the author most likely suffering the same fate (Darrow). Thus, Voltaire had plenty to write about in his works.

His early education was the responsibility of an irreligious priest named Chateauneuf, who tired to keep Voltaire's mind free of the superstition of the times (Darrow). Near age 10, Voltaire was sent away to a boys' school, where the the first stages of his writing began. Later, Voltaire's father decided that his son should be an attorney, even though Voltaire had already expressed his desire to write. His father said, "Literature is the profession of the man who wishes to be useless to society, and a burden to his relatives, and to die of hunger" (Darrow). However, Voltaire did not die of hunger or become a burden on society. Instead his works often provided great social sommentary, and mocked society and its accepted practices. Because of the nature of his works, Voltaire became a semi-regular inmate at the Bastille.

Voltaire spent most of his life in Paris, until his exile to England by Chevalier de Rohan, a nobleman. While in exile, Voltaire was greatly impressed with the monarch system which England used. He liked the freedoms he had there in speech and religion. Voltaire wrote a “fictional document about the English government entitled the Lettres philosophiques (Philosophical letters on the English)”(1). Voltaire created much controversy with this document being as it shined upon the English system being more advanced than the French system, especially in the areas of religion.

After many years of moving and writing/experimenting with Marquise du Châtelet about natural sciences, Voltaire returned to Paris. It had been twenty-eight years since his last visit to Paris. After seeing one of his own plays being preformed he started writing another tragedy, ''Irene''. He wrote until he became ill and died in 1778. Upon his deathbed, Voltaire ended his long strife with the church by making a final confession in order to be buried on hallowed ground. The church, however, was not so forgiving and refused to allow his remains to be buried on sanctified grounds, but the body had already been buried. “He was buried in the Abbey of Scellères, and his body was transferred to the Panthéon on July 10, 1791, during the French Revolution. In 1814, after the first fall of Napoleon and the restoration of the House of Bourbon monarchy, Voltaire's bones were removed from the Pantheon and destroyed. His heart is preserved at La Comedie Francaise”(1). Fifty years passed before the desecration of Voltaire's remains was discovered. By that time his brain had been sold at auction and somewhere along the way, disappeared (IMDB).

==Themes==
Sexual Exploitation

Resurection

Poverty

Immorality

==Works==
* [[Candide]]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Letters_on_the_English Letters on the English]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zadig Zadig]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Micromegas Micromegas]

==Historical Context==

==Resources==

[http://www.encyclopedia.com/html/section/Voltaire_Voltaire'sLifeandWorks.asp Voltaire at encyclopedia.com]

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire at Wikipedia]

==Works Cited==

[[Category:World Literature]]
1. "Biography for Voltaire." 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0901806/bio]

2. Darrow, Clarence. ''Voltaire''. 1 Feb 2006. [http://www.positiveatheism.org/hist/darrow5.htm]

3. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltaire Voltaire] "Voltaire." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 5 Feb 2006

Tartuffe

2006-02-01T22:59:46Z

Lchilds: /* Hypocrisy */

A [[comedy]] by [[Molière]].

==Background==
Tartuffe was written in 1664 during a time when the word of the Church was the word of law. Typically, the Church was very corrupt and often sought personal wealth instead of spiritual growth. The Company of the Holy Sacrament was a Catholic group who believed in good deeds and had beliefs similar to those of the Puritans. They were known to place "spiritual advisors" within the homes of the people to ensure the families salvation. The group, in particular, did not like the play because it portrayed Tartuffe, who was spiritual advisor, as a scoundrel and not a pious man.

==Themes==
Tartuffe offers many themes for one to explore. Among them are the dangers of a heirarchy within a family, religious piety and how it can be exploited, and hypocrisy and its effects on the public's view of religion.

=== Hypocrisy ===
Tartuffe provides hypocrisy and is the hypocrite because of the religious morals he forces upon Orgon and his family, in which he is doing to satisfying for his own personal agenda. The element or idea of a 'masque' that he wears is present by Tartuffe always playing the role of an ever so pious(having, showing, or pretending religious devotion) man who has no desire for worldly goods. This is proven when Damis tries to speaks opposingly of Tartuffe to his father. Tartuffe becomes so completely humble and knowledgeable his status, uses this to turn Orgon against Damis. Tartuffe, however is unmasked towards the end of the play when he makes a pass for Orgon's wife Elmire after we learn that Orgon has given Tartuffe all legal right to his property. Some may also see the play as a criticism of religion and the character of Tartuffe is though to have possibly been based on some figure of the time, he is not only a hypocrite in himself, but may represent hypocrisy in the church of that period.

===Hierarchy===
The theme of Hierarchy is very prevalent in Tartuffe because the majority of the play is taking place in the family's home. The home is an example of hierarchy because it is organized in a way such that everyone has their own ranking. The home in which the play takes place is the Father's, Orgon, home. Orgon feels like what he says must go because he is the highest ranking character in the hierarchy. An example of this is when he tells his daughter, Mariane, that she must marry Tartuffe instead of Valere. She would not dare to disobey her father because he is sort of the "ruler" of the household. Someone who does not understand her place in the hierarchy is Dorine. She is the servant, but is one of the most out spoken of them all.

==Characters==
=== Tartuffe ===
The main antagonist of the play, his role as the hypocrite is concealed until very early on, though suspicion arises during the beginning of the play. He finds people's weaknesses and goes about any means necessary to get what he wants from them. His greatest flaw is his admiration of Elmire, which in the end reveals his true identity to everyone.

=== Orgon ===
Could be considered the protagonist. Father of Damis and Mariane. Husband to Elmire.

=== Damis ===
The son of Orgon and the stepson to Elmire. It is he who witnesses Tartuffe's lust for Elmire and tells his accounts to Orgon.

=== Cléante ===
A man of words, he tries to reason everything in life for the better. However, Madame Pernelle thinks that his words "aren't suitable for decent folk." (20)

=== Dorine ===
The lady's maid of Mariane , very "out of place" constantly interjecting with her opinion and very talkative, not the typical personality for a lady's maid. Dorine is also essential to the comical aspects of the play. It seems her main purpose in the play is for the comic relief.

=== Mariane ===
Daughter of Orgon, engaged to Valére, is the subject of controversy when Orgon decides that she is to marry Tartuffe.

=== Elmire ===
Orgon's second wife. She is presumably significantly younger than Orgon, as well. She is ultimately the one who brings out Tartuffe's corruptions by flirting with him with Orgon in concealed presence.

=== Valére ===
He represents the loyal "Underdog" of the play. His only wish is to have Mariane's hand in marriage. Even though Orgon breaks his promise to Valere out of ambitious greed, he still rallies for the families cause because of his love for her. He shows true loyalty when others have faltered and is rewarded his heart's desire at the end.

=== Madame Pernelle ===
Orgon's mother. She is the "Lady of the House", basically an old grandma who is jealous of the youth of her house and their vivacity. She also wants attention and for the people in the house to listen to her and her opinions.

==Summary==
===Act I=== Act I starts with Madame Pernelle appalled by the fact that no one listens to her and she goes off on all of the people in the room. She tells everyone what is on her mind about the individual. Damis and Dorine argue about Tartuffe's credibility with Madame Pernelle. Orgon returns to only be concerned about Tartuffe, who has Orgon praising him. Cleante questions the engagement of Mariane and Valere and goes to warn Valere that Orgon is not keeping his promise.

===Act II===
Marianne asks her father, Orgon, about her marriage to Valere but he says he plans to wed her to Tartuffe. She does not like Tartuffe at all because she is in love with Valere.

===Act III=== Act III starts with Damis rambling to Dorine about his father’s plan to force Mariane to marry Tartuffe. Dorine tries to get rid of him because she has already made arrangements for Elmire to talk to Tartuffe. Damis won’t leave and Tartuffe is coming so Damis hides in a closet.

Tartuffe enters and addresses Dorine and asks her to cover up her breast. He says that the flesh is weak, and unclean thoughts are difficult to control. Dorine says that she could see him completely naked and not have any unclean thoughts. Then she tells him that Elmire is coming and wants to speak with him.

Elmire enters and Tartuffe starts complementing her beautiful body and states how happy he is to be alone with her. She tells him that she wants to talk about a private matter and he says he been waiting for the moment to open his heart to her. He slides closer to her and starts to tell her how he admires her. He puts his had on her knee and she begins to slide away from him as he slides closer. Elmire getting back to the subject asks him about her husband breaking his promise to his daughter. He says that Orgon mentions it but he doesn't want to marry Mariane, because he has his mind on someone else. He keeps talking about how much he likes her. Then she reminds him of his religious status, but he says even religious men are weak when it comes to her charms. He offers to give her his love and assures that he will protect her from the ridicule of others, because he also wants to protect his self. Elmire makes a deal with Tartuffe. She will not tell her husband about what he did if he persuaded Orgon to let Mariane marry Valere.

===Act IV===

Act IV begins with a discussion between Cleante and Tartuffe, in which Cleante advises Tartuffe that causing problems within the family goes against his Christian beliefs and preaching. Tartuffe claims to harbor no ill will against Damis for his having told Orgon of Tartuffe's proclaimations to Elmire in the previous act. Tartuffe also claims to accept Orgon's bequethment of an inheritance for the sole purpose of safe-guarding the wealth from the sinners.

Dorine, Elmire, and Mariane enlist Cleante's assistance in an attempt to convince Orgon to disregard his intentions to force Mariane to marry Tartuffe. However, Orgon cannot be swayed from his decision, even though Mariane would gladly give up her inheritance to get out of such a fate. Orgon decides that Mariane must marry Tartuffe more than ever, simply because she dislikes the man so much.

Elmire realizes that Orgon's opinions of Tartuffe can only be swayed were he to witness the man's true nature for himself. Thus, she proposes to trick Tartuffe into re-admitting the feelings he proclaimed for her earlier while Orgon hides under a table. Tartuffe does admit his feelings and requests physical proof that Elmire returns his feelings for her. He then proceeds to speak of how Orgon is completely incompetant. Tartuffe's disloyal words regarding Orgon prove to be the final straw, for Orgon tells Tartuffe to leave the house immediately. Tartuffe promises retribution. As the final scene closes, Orgon makes reference to a strong box, the significance of which will not become apparent until the next act.

===Act V===

== Related Materials ==
* [[Literary Terms]]
* [[Comedy]]
* [[Satire]]

== Productions and Translations ==
* [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0228925/?fr=c2l0ZT1kZnx0dD0xfGZiPXV8cG49MHxrdz0xfHE9dGFydHVmZmV8ZnQ9MXxteD0yMHxsbT01MDB8Y289MXxodG1sPTF8bm09MQ__;fc=2;ft=21;fm=1 Kirk Browning]

==Critical Perspectives==
* Lucas, Gerald. "[http://earthshine.org/node/406 Keeping Up Appearances]." 15 Jan 2006.

==Additional Resources==
* [http://novaonline.nvcc.edu/eli/eng252/tartuffestudy.htm Tartuffe Study Guide]

[[Category:World Literature]]