Discuss how irony constitutes the chief element in the characterisation of Faustus. (MEG 103) (IRONY AND THE TRAGIC DILEMMA IN DOCTOR FAUSTUS)

Irony plays a significant role in the characterization of Faustus, the titular character in Christopher Marlowe's play "Doctor Faustus." The play portrays Faustus as an ambitious and intelligent man who is dissatisfied with his current state of knowledge and yearns for greater power and understanding. However, his quest for knowledge leads him down a path of self-destruction and tragedy, and the use of irony is a key element in highlighting this downfall.

One of the most significant examples of irony in the play is the contrast between Faustus's desires and his actions. Despite his intelligence and education, Faustus is unable to recognize the dangers of his actions, and his pursuit of power and knowledge ultimately leads him to damnation. Throughout the play, Faustus is presented as a tragic figure who is unable to control his own fate, despite his great ambitions and desires.

Another example of irony in the play is the character of Mephistopheles, the devil who appears to Faustus and offers him the power and knowledge he seeks. Mephistopheles is initially presented as a powerful and seductive figure who is able to tempt Faustus with his promises of wealth and knowledge. However, as the play progresses, Mephistopheles is revealed to be a servant of Lucifer and is ultimately unable to save Faustus from damnation. This irony highlights the inherent danger and deception of making deals with the devil, even for those who are intelligent and educated like Faustus.

Furthermore, there is irony in Faustus's own character, as he is portrayed as an intelligent and learned man who is also arrogant and foolish. Despite his extensive education, Faustus is unable to see the consequences of his actions and is ultimately undone by his own hubris. This irony underscores the play's central theme of the dangers of pride and ambition.

In conclusion, irony is a central element in the characterization of Faustus in Christopher Marlowe's play "Doctor Faustus." Through the use of irony, Marlowe highlights the tragic nature of Faustus's downfall and underscores the play's central themes of pride, ambition, and the dangers of making deals with the devil.