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FAUST

JOHANN WOLFGANG VON GOETHE

Based largely on the translations by Bayard Taylor and Philip Wayne.

Edited, rewritten and with additional material by Andrew Plant.

PROLOGUE IN HEAVEN 2

SCENE I: FAUST’S STUDY (FAUST’S monologue) 6

SCENE II: BEFORE THE CITY GATE 15

SCENE III: FAUST’S STUDY (The Exorcism) 23

SCENE IV: FAUST’S STUDY (The Wager) 31

SCENE V: WITCH’S KITCHEN 42

INTERMISSION

SCENE VI: A STREET IN THE TOWN 50

SCENE VII: EVENING, MARGARET’S ROOM 53

SCENE VIII: A STREET IN THE TOWN 55

SCENE IX: MARTHA’S HOUSE 57

SCENE X: A STREET IN THE TOWN 64

SCENE XI: MARTHA’S GARDEN 66

SCENE XII: A FOREST CAVERN 72

SCENE XIII: MARTHA’S GARDEN 75

SCENE XIV: AT THE WELL 81

SCENE XV: NIGHT ON THE STREET 84

SCENE XVI: THE CATHEDRAL 90

SCENE XVII: WALPURGIS NIGHT AND FAUST’S VISION 92

SCENE XVIII: PRISON 99

PROLOGUE IN HEAVEN

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(The ARCHANGELS are praising the invisible GOD and His Creation.)

RAPHAEL

The sun-orb sings, in emulation, ‘Mid brother spheres his ancient round:

His path predestined through creation, He ends with step of thunder sound.

The angels from his visage splendid draw power, whose measure none can say;

The lofty works, uncomprehended, are bright as on the earliest day.

(A crunching sound begins to be heard. The ARCHANGELS decide to ignore it)

GABRIEL

And swift and swift, beyond conceiving, the splendour of the world goes round,

Day’s Eden-brightness still relieving the awful night’s intense profound:

The ocean tides in foam are breaking, against the rocks’ deep bases hurled,

And planetary courses taking, the seas and cliffs are ever whirled.

(The crunching sound becomes louder, and growing light reveals a figure US, his back to the ARCHANGELS. They doggedly ignore him.)

MICHAEL

And rival storms abroad are surging from sea to land, from land to sea.

A chain of raging action forging in their tempestuous majesty.

The flame of brilliant devastation now lights the thunderbolt his way.

Yet, Lord, thy angels all are praising the gentle progress of Thy day.

(The figure US turns. It is MEPHISTOPHELES. He is cracking peanuts and tossing the shells onto Heaven. The ARCHANGELS plough on.)

ARCHANGELS

Though still by them uncomprehended, from these the angels draw their power,

And all Thy works, sublime and splendid, are bright as in creation’s hour.

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MEPHISTOPHELES

(Moving into the ARCHANGELS’ light. THEY spurn him.)

Since Thou, O Lord, to meet us deigns, and ask of us how things go round,

And having met in manner fain, amongst Thy menials here I’m found.

Your pardon, but I can’t follow after these nobles’ words, and earn their scorn,

My pathos would certainly earn Thy laughter, if merriment Thou hads’t not full forsworn.

Your suns and worlds aren’t in my ken; I merely watch the plaguey state of men.

The little god of earth sticks to the same old way, and is as whimsical as on Creation’s day.

Life somewhat better might content him, but for the glimpse of heaven You lent him.

He calls it Reason, hence his power’s increased to be far beastlier than any beast.

Excusing Your Grace, but he to me a long-legged cricket appears to be.

That in the grass, with flying springs, the same old tedious ditty sings.

And not content with grass that clothes him, will seek for dung to stick his nose in!

GOD

Hast thou, then, nothing more to mention? Com’st ever thus, with ill intention?

Find nothing right on earth to see?

MEPHISTOPHELES

No, things are as bad as bad can be. Man’s grief to pity e’en moves my nature, I’ve scarce the heart to plague the creature!

GOD

Knowest Faust?

MEPHISTOPHELES

The Doctor Faust?

GOD

He, my servant.

MEPHISTOPHELES

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Indeed? A servant strange and fervent!

From food and drink the fool refrains; his fever dreams of lofty planes.

In half suspected madness he the fairest stars of Heaven requires.

The choicest arts and joys must be the heart of what his soul desires.

And yet the highest and the best can’t still the torment of his breast.

GOD

Though still confused his service be, I shall reveal a clearer morning,

Sees not the gardener, as buds his tree, both fruit and flower the years adorning?

MEPHISTOPHELES

What will you bet, that I can’t gain him, if unto me full leave You give,

Gently upon my road to train him?

GOD

As long as he on earth shall live.

Then, yes, do what you would prefer. For man must strive, and man must err.

MEPHISTOPHELES

My thanks! The dead are not for reaping, I care not to have them in my keeping,

Give me pink cheeks where blood is leaping!

GOD

Enough! What thou has asked is granted! Seduce this soul from his fountain-head.

To trap him, let thy snares be planted, and him with thee be downward led.

Then stand abashed, when forced to say,

A good man, through dark, obscure ambition, has still an instinct of the righteous way.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Agreed! I doubt not my success! About my bet I’ve no trepidation, and if I fulfil my expectation,

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You’ll let me triumph with swelling breast! Dust shall he eat, and with a zest, just like the snake, my near relation!

GOD

In that, thou art free, as is thy merits. The likes of thee have never moved My hate.

Of all the bold, denying spirits, the waggish knave least trouble doth create.

(To the ARCHANGELS)

But ye, God’s sons in love and duty, enjoy the rich, everlasting beauty.

Creative power, so vital, vernal, clasp you in love’s immortal folds,

And all that floating semblance holds, fix it fast in thought eternal.

(The ARCHANGELS depart scornfully. Heaven closes.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

I like to hear the Ancient’s word, and have a care to be most civil.

It’s decent of such a noble Lord, so kindly to gossip with the Devil!

SCENE I

NIGHT, FAUST’S STUDY

(A lofty, dim, chamber crowded with piles of books and obscure scientific and magical instruments. Faust sits restlessly at his desk.)

FAUST

I’ve studied now philosophy, and jurisprudence, medicine,

And even, alas, theology, from end to end with labour keen;

And here, poor fool, with all my lore, I stand no wiser than before.

I’m Magister and Doctor hight, and straight or crooked, wrong or right,

These ten years long, with many woes, I’ve led my scholars by the nose,

And see that nothing can be known – that knowledge cuts me to the bone.

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I’m cleverer, true, than those fops of teachers, doctors and magisters, scribes and preachers.

Neither scruples nor doubts come now to smite me, nor hell nor devil can longer affright me.

For this, all pleasure am I forgoing; I do not pretend to aught worth knowing.

I do not pretend I could be a teacher to help or convert a fellow creature.

Then, too, I’ve neither lands nor gold, nor the world’s least pomp or honour hold –

No dog would endure such a cursed existence! Wherefore, from magic I seek assistance.

That many a secret perchance I reach, through spirit power and spirit speech,

And thus the bitter task forgo of saying the things I do not know.

That I may detect the inmost force that binds the world and guides it’s course,

It’s germs, productive powers explore – and rummage in empty words no more!

Oh, full and splendid moon, whom I have from this desk seen climb the sky

So many a night, would that thy glow for one last time behold my woe.

Ever thine eye, most mournful friend, o’er books and papers saw me bend.

And would that I, on mountains grand, amid thy blessed light could stand.

But, ah, this dungeon still I see, this drear accursed masonry,

Where even the welcome daylight strains but duskly through the painted panes.

Hemmed in by many a toppling heap of books worm-eaten, dusty manged,

Which to the vaulted ceiling creep, with smoky ranks of papers ranged.

With glasses, boxes, round me stacked, and instruments together hurled,

Ancestral lumber, stuffed and packed – such is my world, and what a world!

And do I ask, wherefore my heart is lamed and frightened in my breast?

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Why all the springs of life that start are strangely smothered and oppressed?

Alas! In living nature’s stead, where God his human creature set,

In smoke and mould the fleshless dead and bones of beasts surround me yet!

Fly! Up, and seek the broad, free land! And this one Book of Mystery

From Nostradamus’ very hand – is ‘t not sufficient company?

When I the starry courses know, and nature’s wise instruction seek,

With light of power my soul shall glow, as when to spirits, spirits speak.

Tis vain, this empty brooding here, though guessed the holy symbols be:

Ye spirits come – ye hover near – Oh, if you hear me, answer me!

(He opens the book before him and sees the Sign of the Macrocosm)

What sudden rapture leaps from this, through all my senses swiftly flowing!

I feel a holy, vital bliss in every vein and fibre glowing.

Was it a god, that traced this sign with calm across my tumult stealing,

My troubled heart to joy unsealing with impulse, mystic and divine!

Am I a god? So clear my eyes, the symbol’s riddle recognised,

How each the whole its substance gives, each in the other works and lives.

How grand a show! Ah! But show alone! How, boundless nature, to make thee my own?

You living source, that feeds all fair, and yet I wither in despair!

(He turns the pages impatiently, until his eyes fall on the symbol of the Earth Spirit)

How otherwise upon me works this sign! Thou, Spirit of the Earth, art nearer.

My powers now feel loftier, clearer; I glow, as drunk with new-made wine.

New strength to meet this world, incite me; woe and bliss of earth, invite me!

And though the shock of storms may smite me, no shipwreck’s crash will ever fright me!

(The lights dim and winds rise as a presence enters the chamber. FAUST is seized with dread)

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Clouds gather o’er – the moon conceals her light –

The lamp’s extinguished!

Mists rise – red, angry rays are darting about my head!

There falls a horror from the vaulted roof, and seizes me!

I feel thy presence, Spirit I invoke!

Reveal thyself – ha! In my heart, what rending stroke! In tumult of feeling

My mind is riven, my senses reeling!

I feel thee draw my heart, absorb, exhaust me:

Thou must! Thou must! Though my life it costs me!

(He seizes the book and traces the sign of the Spirit. In flames, the Spirit appears)

SPIRIT

Who calls me?

FAUST

Ah! Fearful to see!

SPIRIT

Me hast thou long with might attracted, long from my sphere thy food extracted,

And now –

FAUST

Woe! I endure not thee!

SPIRIT

To view me is thine aspiration, my voice to hear, my countenance to see.

Thy powerful yearning moveth me!

Here am I! What horror now can chase the colour from thy lips, my superhuman?

Thy soul’s high calling, where? Where the courage that began to shape and cherish a world,

The heart that glowed, with lofty ardour lit to be our peer, with us, the spirits?

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Art thou that Faust, whose voice hath challenged me, pressed towards me, proclaimed his hour,

And trembles now in the presence of my power, a writhing, terror-stricken worm?

FAUST

Thee, form of flame, shall I then fear? Yes, I am Faust, I am thy peer!

SPIRIT

(Grandly, insulted by FAUST’S egotism.)

Spin I on the whirring loom of time the garment of Life for the deity sublime!

FAUST

Swift Spirit, whose labours know no end, how akin our natures seem to be!

SPIRIT

(Scornfully)

Ha! Thou art only the little spirit that thou can comprehend, not me!

(The Spirit vanishes, leaving FAUST aghast and confused.)

FAUST

Not thou? Who then? I, image of God, I not with thee compare?

(A knock at the door)

Damnation! Tis my servitor, Wagner! My richest hope is in confusion hurled!

He spoils my vision of the spirit world, this lickspittle of learning at my door!

(WAGNER enters, in dressing gown and night-cap, carrying a lamp.)

WAGNER

Beg pardon, but I heard you, Sir, declaiming, some tragedy, I’ll warrant, from the Greek?

That’s just the art at which I’m aiming, for all are impressed when scholars speak!

But if study ties us, winter, summer and holidays too, that we see men

As through a glass, so ill defined, how can we hope to lead mankind?

FAUST

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If feeling fails you, vain shall be your course and idle your plan unless your art

Springs from the soul with elemental force, to hold its sway in every listening heart.

You sit forever cutting, patching, you cook the scraps from other’s fare,

And from your heap of ashes hatching a starveling flame of rank despair.

Apes and children may admire, if admiration’s your chief desire,

But speak yet from the heart alone, and you’ll win others to your own.

WAGNER

Yet through delivery, orators succeed; I feel that I’m behind indeed!

FAUST

Trust honesty to win success, be not a noisy jingling fool.

Good sense, Sir, and rightmindedness have little need to speak by rule.

WAGNER

But Art is long, and life is short, and often in my deep endeavour

My heart quails from the solemn thought of death before my learning’s over!

FAUST

Is parchment your well of living water, where whosoever drinks shall be made whole?

Stem not your craving from that quarter; the spring is vain that flows not from thy soul!

WAGNER

And yet the world, the mind and heart – to understand must be our part!

FAUST

Those few of understanding, vision rare, who veiled not from the mob their hearts, but tried,

Poor generous fools, to lay their feelings bare, have always been burnt and crucified.

Excuse me friend, it grows deep into night, and now is time for our adjourning.

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WAGNER

I could have stayed longer with delight to join in discourse with your lofty learning.

But tomorrow comes our Easter Day, when I shall ask more, if I may.

I’ve learn’ed much, made books my drink and meat, but cannot rest till knowledge is complete!

(Wagner exits)

FAUST

How strange that he who cleaves to shallow things keeps his hopes alive on empty terms,

And dig with greed for precious plundering and find his happiness unearthing worms!

Wagner, you raised your human bleat, disturbed the spirit world’s great power,

And yet, so barren and effete, you gain my thanks in this wretched hour.

For thou hast torn me from a desperate state, which threatened to overwhelm my sense,

An apparition so giant, so great, it dwarfed and withered my soul’s pretence!

I, God’s own image, who seemed so near, could touch Eternal Truth at last,

I rode too high, and fell in fear; one thunder-word, and all is past.

With thee, Spirit, I cannot compare, though I possess the power to draw thee near.

I so small, I felt so great; your word cut me down to mortal’s fate.

What shall I shun? Whose guidance borrow? Shall I accept that stress and strife?

Ah! Every deed, as every sorrow, impedes the onward march of life!

Man must quail at bridges never crossed, lamenting even things he never lost.

Shall I then rank with Gods? Too well I feel my kinship with the worm, who bores the soil,

Who feeds on dust until the wanderer’s heel gives at last release from all his care and toil.

(He indicates the books around him)

In dust, shall I discover what I lack, and learn by reading countless volumes through,

That mortals mostly live on misery’s rack, that happiness is known to just a few?

Thou hollow skull, what hast thou grin to say, but that a mortal brain, a cloudy mirror

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Sought once the shining day, and then in twilight dull, thirsting for truth, went wretchedly to Error?

(He sees a flask of poison)

So to thee I raise salute, rarest vial, I take thee down devoutly for the trial.

You very spirit of the opiate flowers, you distillation of the deadly powers.

I see thee, and the stings of pain diminish; I’ll drink thee, let my struggles slowly finish.

My spirit’s flood tide ebbeth more, so tell, a new day beckons to a newer shore!

I’ll dare the narrow flaming pass of hell, and stride in strength towards the dreaded door.

This step I take in cheerful resolution, dare more than death, yea, dare my dissolution!

(He puts the flask to his lips. A church bell tolls – it is Easter morning.)

What depth of tolling, what the blissful chime, that ends my lifting of the fatal vial?

The bells do tell of that blessed time, ‘tis Easter Morn that saves my trial!

This melody recalls the bliss of childhood remembered, the songs of innocence, the joy of springtime’s day,

And in this final hour these thoughts of youth thus retendered have held me back from that last solemn, darkening way.

(He falls to his knees in prayer.)

Sound on, ye hymns of heaven, so sweet and so mild!

My tears gush forth: the earth takes back her child!

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SCENE II

BEFORE THE CITY GATE

(A crowd of Easter holiday-makers enters)

FIRST APPRENTICE

Why do you go that way?

SECOND

We’re for the Hunters’ Lodge today!

FIRST

We’ll saunter to the Mill, in yonder hollow.

THIRD

Go to the River Tavern, I should say!

SECOND

Ah, yes, but it’s not a pleasant way.

FOURTH

And what will you?

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FIFTH

As goes the crowd, I follow.

FOURTH

Come up to Burgdorf. There you’ll find good cheer, the finest lasses and the best of beer,

And jolly rows and squabbles, trust me!

(Two servant girls pass in conversation)

SERVANT GIRL

No, no, I’ll turn and go to town again

SECOND SERVANT GIRL

We’ll surely find him by those poplars yonder.

SERVANT GIRL

That’s no great luck for me, that’s plain, you’ll have him, when and where you wander;

His partner in the dance you’ll be, so what is all your fun to me!

STUDENT

(Sees the SERVANT GIRLS)

Deuce, how they step, the buxom wenches! Come, brother, we must see them to the benches!

A pipe of shag, a glass of barley wine, then a well-dressed wench will suit me fine!

CITIZEN’S DAUGHTER

(Observing the STUDENTS)

Just see those handsome fellows there! It’s really shameful, I declare!

They’re fit for a girl refined, a gem, and then they chase a pair of sluts like them!

SECOND STUDENT

(Spying the CITIZENS’ DAUGHTERS)

Not quite so fast! Two others come behind, dressed so prettily and so neatly.

My neighbour’s one of them, I find, a girl that takes my heart completely.

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They go their way with looks demure, but they’ll go the way with us, I’m sure!

FIRST STUDENT

No, brother, not for me their formal ways. Quick, lest our game escape us in the press.

The hand that wields the broom on Saturdays will best, on Sunday, fondle and caress!

BEGGAR

Good gentlemen and lovely ladies, so red of cheek and fine of dress,

Behold how needful here your aid is, and see and lighten my distress!

Let me not vainly sing my ditty, he’s only glad who gives away:

A holiday, that shows your pity, shall be for me a harvest day!

OLD WOMAN

(To CITIZEN’S DAUGHTER.)

Dear me, how fine, so pretty and so young! Who wouldn’t lose his heart, who met you!

Don’t be so proud, I’ll hold my tongue, and what you lust I’ll undertake to get you!

CITIZEN’S DAUGHTER

Come. Agatha, I shun the witch’s sight before this crowd, lest there be misgiving.

(Whispers)

‘Tis true, she showed me on Saint Andrew’s night, my future love, just as he were living!

SOLDIERS

(Enter singing a rough chorus.)

Citadels high, fortifications, girls that deny love’s invitations,

With pride in their eyes, to bring to submission both of those prize, that’s our ambition!

Trumpets may bray, calling the brave, let come what may, joy or the grave!

A full life and short, on to the field, maiden or fort, make ‘em both yield!

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Bold is the venture, splendid the pay! And the soldiers go marching, marching away!

(FAUST and WAGNER enter, FAUST in an expansive mood.)

FAUST

Released from ice are brook and river by the quickening glance of the gracious spring,

The colours of hope to the valley cling, and weak old winter himself must shiver.

All about the sun the new growth moves; he will brighten the world with the colours he loves,

But now lacking blossom, blue, yellow and red, he takes these gaudy people instead!

Turn thee about, and from this height back on the town direct thy sight.

Out of the hollow, gloomy gate the motley throngs come forth elate:

Each will the joy of the sunshine hoard, to honour the Day of the Risen Lord!

They feel themselves their resurrection, from their hovels and oppresive rooms,

From the bonds of work, from the trade’s restriction, from the ugly walls and garret glooms.

I hear the noise of each village even; here is the people’s proper heaven,

Here, high and low contented see; here I am Man – dare man to be!

WAGNER

To stroll with you, Sir Doctor, flatters; ‘tis honour and profit unto me.

But I alone would shun these shallow matters, since all that’s course provokes my enmity.

This fiddling, shouting, skittle-rolling I hate – these noises of the throng.

They rave, as if Satan were their sports controlling, and call it mirth and call it song!

OLD PEASANT

Your Honour’s good to walk our way; we see, and take it kindly, Sir,

That you so learn-ed, can prefer to join us on our holiday!

Then also take this tankard, Sir, filled with our best wine, for your sake:

I offer it and humbly wish not simply that your thirst is slake –

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But every drop the cup may give, an added happy day you live!

FAUST

I’ll take your cup, and wishes too! And wish long life to all of you!

ANOTHER PEASANT

In truth, ‘tis well you join us here, that now our day of joy you share,

As you, before, in evil days, gave us so much of helping care.

Still many a man stands living here, saved by your father’s skilful hand,

Rescued from the fever’s rage, though stalked the plague through all the land.

Then also you, though but a youth, went into every house of pain;

Many the corpses carried forth, but you in health came out again.

No test or trial you evaded, and God himself He hath you aided.

OTHERS

To him, preserved, good health, good will! And may he live to help us still!

FAUST

(Increasingly embarrassed by the praise, almost ashamed.)

Nay, bow yourselves to God above, who helps and teaches with His love!

WAGNER

With such feeling, Sir, must thou receive the people’s veneration!

How lofty, Sir, has grown your station, such joy your genius doth endow.

The father shows you to his son, where’ ere you pass, they stop and stare,

The fiddle stops, and everyone doth pause and raise caps in the air!

A little more, they’d kneel, almost, as if before the Holy Host!

FAUST

(Upset, but trying to hide it.)

A few more steps ascend, as far as yonder stone, here from our wandering we will rest contented.

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Here, pensive, I’ve lingered oft alone, when foolish fasts and prayers my life tormented.

Here, rich in hope and firm in faith, with tears, wrung hands and sighs, I’ve striven,

The end of plague, of blackening death, entreated from the Lord of Heaven.

(He breaks down, bitterly, full of self-loathing.)

This peoples’ praise feels as mocking blame, if you could only read within my soul

How little father or son can truly claim the virtues these simple folk extol!

My father did brood, let me be clear, poring on Nature and her dark dominion,

An ardent scholar, with a mind sincere, yet cursed with stubborn, obstinate opinion.

In company of others of his bent, he tended cauldrons of the midnight crew,

And secret recipes were sent, concocting things of the foulest brew!

And this was medicine, so their patients died, yet no one questioned had they lied.

Those few who lived, through fortune pure, yet never questioned their own cure.

So father and son, poisoners, worse! these hills and vales did traverse,

And ravaged more deadly than the pest.

Thousands died from poison of my giving, and I must hear, from all the living,

The shameless murderers praised and blessed!

WAGNER

Good Sir, yield not to such depression! A good man does his honest share

In exercising, with the strictest care, the skills bequeathed to his profession!

You owed your father, Sir, compliance, and honoured what he taught your youth.

Now in your prime, if you further science, your son may reach an even higher truth!

FAUST

Oh, happy he, who can still hope to rise, emerging from this sea of fear and doubt.

What no man knows, alone could make us wise; and what we know, we could do without.

WAGNER

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Come, Sir, the grey of evening falls, the air is chilled and the mists arise.

Dusk is the hour the homely firelight calls; such times, one learns such warmth to prize!

(FAUST suddenly starts in fear.)

Why stand you thus, with such astonished eyes? What sight has caused your heart such trouble?

FAUST

See’st thou a black dog there, coursing round through the corn and stubble?

WAGNER

Long since, but deemed him not important in the least.

FAUST

Look closer now, and say what sort of beast he seems.

WAGNER

Why, Sir, a hound, of mongrel breed, who scents his way about to find his master!

FAUST

See how his path doth spiral, narrowing faster!

He circles us – unless my senses tire, his track seems traced with tongues of fire!

WAGNER

It must be that your eyes deceive you – naught but a plain black dog I see.

FAUST

The circle narrows – he is near!

WAGNER

A dog thou sees, not some phantom here!

Behold him stop, upon his belly crawl, his tail set wagging, canine habits all!

FAUST

Come here, then, if but dog thou be!

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WAGNER

Stand still, and you will see him wait. Address him, and he gambols straight.

If something’s lost, he’ll quickly bring it – your cane, if in the stream you’ll fling it!

FAUST

No doubt you’re right – no trace of mind, I own, is in the beast, but drill alone.

WAGNER

The dog, when he’s well educated, is by the wisest tolerated.

And he earns grace with his discerning. He, student-like, looks up to men of learning!

(WAGNER laughs. They turn back towards the city. Exit.)

SCENE III

FAUST’S STUDY

(FAUST enters with the dog. He sits at his desk.)

FAUST

Behind me, field and meadow sleeping, I leave in deep prophetic night,

Within whose dread and holy keeping the better soul awakes to light.

The wild desires no longer win us, the deeds of passion cease to chain,

The love of men revives within us, the love of God revives again.

(The dog suddenly scuffles and barks.)

Hey, you there, down! Why snuffle at the door? You restless hound, here’s not the place to rove!

My cushion – there! Don’t wander more as if you’re lost, stay at the stove.

Out yonder you showed your pedigree, and played your tricks on the hilly crest.

But if I give you hospitality, be a welcome, but a silent guest!

(The dog suddenly howls.)

If in my room you wish to share, stop whining, mongrel, and forebear

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Your yelps, I pray you, henceforth, cease – you thoroughly destroy my peace!

I can’t have such a racket near me – one of us must go, believe me!

As host, I say, I’ll not withdraw, but you may leave, so there’s the door!

But, what is this that here I see, what does this beast appear to be?

He grows and rises mightily; a canine form that cannot be!

What spectre have I harboured here that hippopotamus-like draws near!

With fiery eyes, teeth terrible to see! The measure now I have of thee!

(FAUST grasps an ancient book.)

This Book of Solomon serves me well for all you hybrid broods of hell!

(SPIRITS’ voices, unheard by FAUST, arise in the corridor.)

Pinned and trapped within is one, stay without, let follow none!

Like a fox in cage or snare, Hell’s old lynx is quaking there!

Heed, take heed! Back and forth hover, over and over! Soon with care we’ll have him freed.

Spirits, lend your cunning aid, leave him not in irons dismayed.

He served us much, we are his debtors; free him therefore from his fetters!

FAUST

First, to confront this beast of hell, I must repeat the fourfold spell:

(He reads to himself from the book.)

Salamander, brightly burn! Sylph of air, invisibly turn!

Ondine, flow within her wave, Kobold sprite, laborious slave!

(Looking up from the book.)

Those who ignore recondite lore, of elements’ force, their nature and course,

Never will quell spirits of hell!

(Rising, he gestures to the beast and loudly pronounces the spell.)

Vanish in the flames of fire, Salamander!

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Foam upon the streaming strand, Ondine!

Shine amidst the meteor’s glare, Sylph!

Bring to hearth your helping hand, Incubus!

Come, stand forth at my command!

(The beast remains as before.)

None of the elemental four stirs in the beast, but as before

He grins, untroubled, from the floor, unpained by stroke of magic lore!

So, to undisguise thee, hear me exorcise thee!

(FAUST opens the book to a symbol, and holds it forth to the beast, declaiming.)

If that you be Hell’s progeny, look on this sign, symbol divine, and, Satan-brood, bow!

With hair all bristling, it begins to swell!

Base Being, hearest thou? Knowest and fearest thou the One, the Infinite,

That through all Heaven impermeate, He who thou so wickedly pierced!

Cowering from the spell, still he seems to loom and swell,

Like a behemoth of shade, from the stove he would invade all the room in frightful cloud –

Down, you proud spawn of hell! Lay thyself at thy master’s feet!

The power I wield is no deceit!

I’ll wither you with sacred flame, burn thee with the holy name!

Wait not my incantation in its fullest measure!

(Smoke and flame billow, and the shape disappears. MEPHISTOPHELES steps forth, dressed as a travelling scholar.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Why such a noise? What are my lord’s commands?

FAUST

So this, then, is the essence of the brute! A travelling scholar – this is diverting!

MEPHISTOPHELES

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The learned gentleman, I bow before! You’ve made me roundly sweat, that’s certain!

FAUST

What is thy name?

MEPHISTOPHELES

A question small, it seems, from one whose mind the Word so much despises,

Who, scorning all external gleams, the depths of being only prizes.

FAUST

With all such as thee, the name’s a test, whereby the nature is usually expressed.

As when we name one Lord of the Flies, Beelzebub, Destroyer, or Father of Lies!

Who, then, are you?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Part of that power misunderstood, which aims for bad, but works the good!

FAUST

What hidden meaning in this riddle lies?

MEPHISTOPHELES

I am the Spirit that Denies!

And justly so, for all things from the Void called forth, deserve to be destroyed!

‘Twere better, then, were naught created. Thus all which you as Sin have rated –

Destruction, ruin, in downfall rent – that is my proper element!

FAUST

Part of a spirit you have claimed to be, yet stand before me whole!

MEPHISTOPHELES

In modesty, I state the simple truth. Let man’s dim soul regard his toy-world as a perfect whole.

Part of the part, am I, that once was all in night, Part of the Darkness that brought forth the Light!

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Proud Light, which now disputes the space, and claims of Mother Night her ancient place.

But light is fettered, unto bodies it cleaves, and bodies must its course defeat,

And as time passes, and bodies die, I hope it’s death, too, light shall meet!

FAUST

I see the plan thou art pursuing.

Your powers of grand destruction fail, and so you traffic on a smaller scale!

MEPHISTOPHELES

And, frankly, it brings little gain.

Destruction’s forces meet resistance, from something coarse exerting its existence.

I toil away, through thick and thin, yet never really get beneath its skin.

Much earthquake, fire and flood have I applied, and still the placid sea and earth abide!

And that damned stuff, the bestial human flood; what use in having that to play with?

What multitudes have I made away with, and ever there appears a fresh new blood.

It makes me furious, such things beholding, from water, earth and air unfolding.

In moisture or drought, in warm or cold, a myriad of seeds unfold.

Flame is still mine, the power of flame alone, else there is nothing to call my own!

FAUST

And thus, against the ever living creative power, that heals our pain,

You rage in your malevolent misgiving, and clench the fist of treachery in vain!

Strange, sterile Son Of Chaos, think anew, and find yourself something better to do!

MEPHISTOPHELES

The matters that you kindly mention shall soon come up for our attention,

But for the present, pray, may I retire?

FAUST

I know you now, so why enquire; for further visits thou hast leave.

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The door is here, the window, too, or the chimney if you please!

MEPHISTOPHELES

I must confess, I am withheld by what may seem a trifling thing –

The devil charm above your door.

FAUST

The pentagram prohibits thee? Why, tell me now, thou Son of Hades,

If that prevents thee, how did thou enter? Can such a spirit be so led?

MEPHISTOPHELES

The dog saw naught as in he sped!

But now the thing assumes a serious shape, the Devil’s trapped, with no escape!

For devils and spectres this is law, where they have entered, so they must withdraw!

The first is free; we’re governed by the second.

FAUST

In hell itself, then, laws are reckoned?

That’s well! So might a compact be made with you – gentlemen – and be binding?

MEPHISTOPHELES

What hell shall pledge for your pleasure, you surely shall savour in full measure!

But this is not of swift conclusion, we’ll talk about the matter soon.

And now I do entreat this boon – give leave to withdraw from this intrusion.

FAUST

Stay a moment more, I long to learn some tidings of the future’s veiled event.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Nay, let me go, and soon I’ll return, to bide your questions to your heart’s content!

FAUST

I have not snares around thee cast – you led thyself into my lair.

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Who traps the Devil, hold him fast – a second time shall not repair!

MEPHISTOPHELES

If so it pleases, I consent to stay, to bear thee company, on this condition:

I use my arts to while the time away. In this I crave your kind permission.

FAUST

Thereto I’ll willingly agree, if the diversion pleasant be.

MEPHISTOPHELES

This hour, dear friend, will stir your senses more than any pleasures thou hast known before!

The things my dainty spirits sing thee, the lovely sights that they shall bring thee!

Thy palate shall be gratified, thy sense of fragrance satisfied,

Thy nerves of touch ecstatic glow!

I am prepared, the charm I spin, we are well met, and so – begin!

(A chorus of SPIRITS lulls FAUST to sleep.)

SPIRITS

Vanish, ye darking arches above him. Let the sweet blue, brilliant, gentle,

Swim to the view, living and sparkling, azure will banish shades of the vaulting.

From the four quarters, swaying and teeming, fair heaven’s daughters bow with the gleaming beauty of dreaming over the waters.

Dipping and rising, light on the water, hark the inspiring sound of their choiring.

See the entrancing whirl of their dancing. All in the air are freer and fairer!

MEPHISTOPHELES

He sleeps! Enough, ye sprites, your airy number hath truly sung him into slumber.

And now to break the magic’s spell, brother rat’s teeth will serve me well!

No invocation shall I need – I hear thee, rat, thou shalt pay heed!

The Master of the rats and mice, of flies and frogs and worms and lice,

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Bids come thee forth and fearless gnaw the sacred symbol at the door!

Ah, one more bite, I’m free, complete!

Sweet dreams, my Faust, till once more we meet!

FAUST

(He awakens, confused, and realises he is alone.)

Am I thus cheated? Vanished, it seems, the splendid visions by spirit sway!

Left with naught but Devil’s dreams, and that a poodle ran away!

SCENE IV

FAUST’S STUDY

(FAUST is studying at his desk. He hears a knock at his door.)

FAUST

A knock? Come in! Again my quiet broken?

MEPHISTOPHELES

‘Tis I.

FAUST

Come in!

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MEPHISTOPHELES

Thrice must the words be spoken!

FAUST

Come in, then!

MEPHISTOPHELES

That’s the welcome I desire. I hope our friendship ripens well.

I come, thy deep gloom to dispel, in likeness of a noble squire!

My coat embroidered, gold on red, my coat of heavy silk brocade,

A tall cock’s feather on my head, and by my side a saucy blade!

I recommend for thee, in short, an outfit of a similar sort!

Now from this gaol thou step forth free, that life at last be shown to thee!

FAUST

This painful life, this narrow way, I cannot shed with mere attire.

Too old to be content with play, too young to be without desire.

What comfort can this world bestow? Renunciate, abstain! Forego!

Thus life has taught me, with its weary weight, to long for death, the light to hate.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Yet Death is never a wholly welcome guest!

Was is not thou, ere Easter morn, who let a certain chance go wasted,

Who swore to never see the dawn, yet let the poison go untasted?

FAUST

Eavesdropping, then, thy pleasure seems to be!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Omniscient am I not, yet much is known to me.

FAUST

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Yes, from my soul’s tormented maze a sweet remembered echo drew me.

A lingering trace of childhood’s ways sent thrilling, cheating memory through me.

Yet now I curse whate’er entices and snares the soul with visions vain;

With dazzling cheats and dear devices confines it in this cave of pain.

Cursed be at once, the high ambition wherewith the mind itself deludes!

Cursed be the glare of apparition, that on the finer sense intrudes!

Cursed be the lying dream’s impression of name and fame and laurelled brow!

Cursed, all that flatters as possession, as wife and child, as knave and plough!

Cursed Mammon be, when he with treasures to restless actions stirs our fate!

Cursed when, for soft, indulgent leisures, he lays for us the pillows straight!

Cursed be the vine’s transcendent nectar; the highest favour love lets fall!

Cursed, also, Hope! Cursed Faith, the spectre! And cursed be Patience most of all!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Dear Faust, woulds’t but thou entrust to me thy steps through life – I’ll guide thee,

Will willingly walk beside thee, will serve thee at once and forever, with best endeavour.

And if thou art satisfied, will as servant, slave, with thee abide.

FAUST

And what would be required of me in return?

MEPHISTOPHELES

A question time can settle, why now insist?

FAUST

No, no! The Devil is an egotist, the help he gives is not for Heaven’s sake!

Speak thy conditions, plain and clear, with such a servant comes danger, I fear!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Then, here in service I’ll abide, fulfil your very least decree,

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If, when we meet on the other side, you do the very same for me.

But here, I’ll give thee pleasures rare, so deep, so great, you’ll cry “No more!”

In short, I’ll fly your soul to heights no mortal man hath felt before!

FAUST

Cans’t thou, poor Devil, give me whatever I dream?

When was a human soul, in its supreme endeavour, ever understood by such as thou?

Yours is the game for which losers pine, you only offer fruit that rots on the vine!

My very soul’s peace! This is what I require!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Such a demand alarms me not; such a treasure have I, and easily got.

FAUST

(Considering the wager with growing excitement.)

Then so – If ever I be satisfied with a bed of ease, let that moment be the death of me!

If thy flattering lies can please, and soothe my heart to sufficiency,

And make me pleasure’s devotee, then my soul is thine, for eternity!

This wager I offer!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Done!

FAUST

And done again!

If to a fleeing hour I say “Stop, thou art so fair, remain!”

Then bind me with thy fatal chain, for I shall die within that hour!

Tis I for whom the bell shall toll, then thou art free, thy service done.

And timeless night shall wrap my soul, the clock may stop, to ruin run!

MEPHISTOPHELES

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Consider this well, my memory is good!

E’en so, I’d wish from thee an initial, to make this binding pact official.

FAUST

What, pedant, have you never heard, that honest man can keep his word?

What’s greater than my word, I pray, parchment, marble, brass, or clay?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Why heat thyself, such eloquence! Thy indignation’s as a flood!

A scrap of paper shall suffice, just scribe thy name with thine own blood!

FAUST

If this shall make thee satisfied, then let us by this farce abide.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Blood is a juice of quality most rare!

FAUST

(Pricking his finger and signing a piece of paper.)

Pray have no fear that I shall break this bond, since all my strength is in its swearing!

So let thy sensual mysteries emerge, breed magic wonders naked in their bearing.

Bring now the fruits of pain or pleasure forth,

Sweet triumph’s lure, or disappointment’s wrath!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Wealth shall be yours, beyond fear or joy; fall to, but plunge, and don’t be coy!

Why hug this learned martyrdom, the world is wide, so, come, sir, come!

Is it life, more, is it prudence, to bore thyself and bore the students?

The richest items of your knowledge you cannot tell to babes in college.

I hear one’s footsteps, even now!

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FAUST

My door is shut to students this day.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Nay, the poor lad needs a hearing.

Quick, thy cap and gown, be quick, I’ll trust my wits to do the trick.

A quarter hour is all I need; prepare for travel, with all speed!

(MEPHISTOPHELES hurries FAUST from the study, and disguises himself as FAUST.)

Ah, Prince of Lies, my Faust, I bind thee, with magic works and shows that blind thee.

I shall have thee fast and sure, and you are mine for evermore!

(A knock at the door. A STUDENT enters.)

STUDENT

Arrived but lately, Sir, I straight present myself, a candidate.

To learn devotedly from one whose fame throughout the land has run.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Your courtesy doth flatter me; you see a man, as others be.

Have you applied at other doors?

STUDENT

I seek good counsel, and beg for yours.

I’ve strength of heart and courage, please, and well provided with professor’s fees.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Then, you’re on learning’s very track!

STUDENT

And yet, I’ve mind, Sir, to go back!

I find these walls, these vaulted places, are anything but pleasant places.

‘Tis all so cramped and close and mean, one sees no tree, no glimpse of green.

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And when the lecture halls receive me, all seeing, hearing and thinking leave me!

MEPHISTOPHELES

All that depends on habitude!

So from its mother’s breasts, a child, so first reluctant, takes its food,

But soon to seek them is beguiled.

Thus at the breasts of Wisdom clinging, you’ll find each day a rapture bringing!

STUDENT

Oh, that my head upon that bosom lay, but how to find them – teach me, pray!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Explain, before you further speak, the special faculty you seek.

STUDENT

I crave the highest erudition, and fain would make my acquisition

All that there is in Earth and Heaven, and Nature and Science, too!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Waste not thy time; daydreaming, shun! But time through order may be won.

So, Friend, my views to briefly sum, first, the collegium logicum.

Here thy mind be drilled and braced, as if in Spanish boots were laced,

And thus to graver paces brought, will plod along the path of thought,

Instead of shooting here and there, a will-o-the-wisp in the murky air.

And now philosophers step in, to weave a proof that things begin,

Past question, with an origin.

With first and second well rehearsed, our third and fourth can be deduced.

And if no second were, or first, no third or fourth could be produced.

This method scholars praise, and clutch, (though, truth? It won’t amount to much!)

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Next, most important thing of all, to metaphysics you must fall,

And see with deep discernment plain, what things won’t fit in the human brain.

But, fit or not, why vex thy head? Just use a complex phrase instead!

But first, Sir, you must persevere in method, for a good half-year!

Five lectures are your daily plan, and show yourself a punctual man.

For your professor, pray, prepare; no paragraph, Sir, overlook!

And soon you shall be well aware, he never deviates from the book.

But write it down, Sir, every bit, as if the Lord dictated it!

STUDENT

No need to tell me twice to do it! I think, how useful ‘tis to write.

For what one has in black and white, one carries home and then goes through it.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Then choose thyself a faculty!

STUDENT

I cannot reconcile myself to laws.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Such a subject would give any man pause! I know what science this has come to be.

They’ve statutes, rights and laws transmitted like eternal sickness of our race,

From generation to generation fitted, and shifted round from place to place.

To free-born rights, the laws that Nature taught, these lawyer types never give a thought!

STUDENT

Hearing your words, I hate the subject more – how blest are the students who enter thy door.

Perhaps theology has claims more strong?

MEPHISTOPHELES

I should grieve to see thee going wrong!

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Those who choose that learned field may fail to see the traps, too sure,

And zealotry has virus so concealed, it’s hard to tell the poison from the cure!

STUDENT

Pardon! I fear I do detain you, yet I must trouble you again.

Of medicine I would still fain hear thy wise words that would explain you.

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Aside)

I’m tired enough of this dry tone – its time the one true Devil were shown!

(Aloud)

Medicine! The choice of a sensible man, since mortals learn what mortals can.

Yet he who grasps the moment’s gift, will lend his choice a certain lift!

You seem to be of pleasing build – a certain boldness is thy due,

And thus with confidence fulfilled, your patients have confidence in you!

Learn how to handle women, sir, since all the aches and sighs that vex

The tender sex

The doctor knows one little place to cure!

A bedside manner sets their hearts at ease, they’re yours for treatment as you please.

A string of letters after thy name assures them you surpass thy peers,

And thus you’re free to go striaghtway , where other men may plead for years!

You press and count the pulse’s dances, and then, with burning sidelong glances,

You clasp the swelling hips to see how tightly laced her corsets be!

STUDENT

How that makes sense! The how and where! How good the future path to see!

MEPHISTOPHELES

My worthy friend, grey are all theories, and green alone life’s golden tree!

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STUDENT

I scarce can bring myself to take my leave, such wisdom gifted on my behalf!

One last dear favour may I receive? Inscribe, good Sir, thy autograph!

(The STUDENT gives MEPHISTOPHELES his book. He writes in it and returns it. The STUDENT reads out loud.)

STUDENT

Eritis sicut Deus, scientes bonum et malum.

Be as a God, knowing all that is good and evil.

(The STUDENT bows and exits reverently.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Follow the adage of my cousin snake.

From dreams of god-like knowledge ye shall wake – to fear, in which thy soul shall quake!

(FAUST enters in travelling clothes.)

FAUST

Whither shall we go?

MEPHISTPHELES

By any route you please, to see both high and low, by land or seas.

FAUST

What means of travel do you intend? Where hast thou servants, coach and horses?

MEPHISTOPHELES

I’ll spread my cloak with proper art, then through the air direct our courses!

But only, on so bold a flight, be sure to have thy luggage light!

A burning air, which I prepare us, above the earth shall nimbly bear us,

And light, we’ll travel swift and clear – congratulations on thy new career!

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SCENE V

WITCH’S KITCHEN

(A dim and dirty kitchen hung with fantastical magical devices. A low hearth, with a large cauldron sitting upon the fire. Ape-like beasts sit about, stirring the cauldron to see it does

not boil over.

MEPHISTOPHELES and FAUST enter. FAUST looks about in disgust.)

FAUST

This witch’s quackery repels my soul! Is this thy promise, then, that I be healed

By crooked counsel in this foulest hole, by truth in some old hag revealed?

Is this, alas, the summit and the force of all thy cunning? Was my hope so blind?

Can Nature yield no salve or source as fit requital for a noble mind?

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MEPHISTOPHELES

My friend, you show the sense for which I look; not this, but Nature owns a recipe for youth!

But that is hidden in another book, writ in a chapter of the rarest truth.

FAUST

Then tell me!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Nature’s recipe, plain and fair – live a simple life in the open air!

Dig a trench, cultivate the ground, content thyself in the common round.

Eat only what you sow and reap, then thy youth for eighty years shall keep!

FAUST

I cannot stoop and ply a spade, I’ve not the call to such a simpleton’s trade.

My soul would die in a farmer’s skin.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Then that is where the witch comes in!

FAUST

Still havering about the wretched crone! Cannot you brew a potion of your own?

MEPHISTOPHELES

A simple pastime! Meanwhile I postpone a thousand projects ardently desired?

This needs not arts and sciences alone; a time of patient brewing is required!

A sprite can watch the brew for long, but only time can make the potion strong!

You scarce can guess the things it needs; ingredients rare and strange to slake it.

And from my recipe, true, the task proceeds, and yet the Devil cannot make it!

(HE gestures towards the ANIMALS.)

Behold the staff, a delicate race I see.

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(HE raises his voice to the ANIMALS.)

Your mistress, beasts, where may she be?

THE ANIMALS

Carousing today, off and about, by the chimney climbed she out!

MEPHISTOPHELES

How long does she roam?

THE ANIMALS

Long enough our paws to warm, her fire awaiting.

MEPHISTOPHELES

(To FAUST)

How findest thou these dainty creatures?

FAUST

Disgusting beasts, absurd to see.

(HE turns, and catches sight of a mirror, and is drawn to it.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

I disagree, discourse of this kind has certain qualities attractive to one such as I.

FAUST

(Not hearing, drawn rapturously to the mirror.)

What do I see? What heavenly form revealed shows through the glass through magic’s fair dominions!

O, lend me, Love, the swiftest of thy pinions, and bear me to her beauteous field!

A woman’s form, in beauty shining, can woman have such loveliness?

Has earth a gift so exquisite and rare, a heavenly form my soul to bless?

MEPHISTOPHELES

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Of course! For if God has toiled six days, then, self-contented, Bravo! says,

The finished product should have power to impress!

But take your time, gaze to your heart’s content, I’ll find thee one and thus ensnare her.

And lucky he, she so opulent, that as bridegroom home he gets to bear her!

(The cauldron suddenly boils over, flames arise, and through them the WITCH appears, shrieking horribly.)

WITCH

Ai-ow! Ai-ow! The damned beast, accursed sow!

To leave the kettle, and singe thy Frau!

(The WITCH perceives FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES.)

What’s this to-do? Who here are you?

What are you seeking, prying and sneaking?

Blasted with groans, hell roast your bones!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Abomination, hag, can’st thou not size thy Lord and Master before your eyes?

Old scare-crow, pray, what holds me back from smiting thee down with thy monkey-pack?

See thee the scarlet cloak, and not tremble? Too blind the cock feather to perceive?

When hast thou known my countenance dissemble? Or must I wear my title on my sleeve?

WITCH

My Lord, forgive me if I weren’t genteel! I see no signs – no cloven heel!

And whence is your pitch black raven pair?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Well, just this once, thy etiquette’s debt shall be excused, for to be quite fair

Full many a moon’s passed since we met.

Culture, which smooth the whole world licks, also to the devil sticks.

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The days of the northern phantom are over – can’st thou horns, tail, claws discover?

Regarding the foot, with which I can’t dispense, my social circle would take offence.

And so, like many fashionable lads, I falsify my calves by using pads!

WITCH

Out of my wits am I, with full surprise to see Squire Satan before my eyes!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Woman, from such a name refrain!

WITCH

Why so? What has it done to thee?

MEPHISTOPHELES

True, ‘tis almost a fairy-tale, and yet no betterment in man we see.

The Evil Name is banned, yet evils prevail.

Call me Lord Baron, then all is good, I am a cavalier like all the rest.

So cast no doubt on my gentle blood, behold my coat of arms –

(He throws open his cape, thrusting his hips.)

And this for a crest!

(He gestures obscenely to the WITCH.)

WITCH

(Screeching with laughter.)

Now that’s the old style of devil I know. A rogue thou art, and were always so!

Now tell me, pray, sir, what service may I be?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Give us a goblet of thy celebrated juice, but, I say, of the oldest brew,

The years a double strength produce.

WITCH

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Aye, gladly, sir! Now here’s a bottle, wherefrom, sometimes, I wet my throttle.

Which also, not the slightest stinks, and willingly a glass I’ll fill him.

(Whispering to MEPHISTOPHELES.)

Yet if this man unprepar-ed drinks, you know full well, in an hour ‘twill kill him!

MEPHISTOPHELES

He is my friend, the brew shall suit him well; I grant him all your kitchen produces.

So draw your circle, speak the spell, and serve a bumper of thy secret juices!

(The WITCH, with outlandish gestures, muttering and screeching, marks out a circle, and places magical articles within it. She then brings an ancient book, and uses one of the

APES as a reading desk, while the others hold aloft torches.)

FAUST

Tell me, why this parade of antic, this gibbering witch craft, wild and frantic?

For I have known, and hated enough, the falseness of this senseless stuff.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Mere slapstick, man, for laughter and delight. Why be so sobre and sedate?

Such hocus-pocus is a doctor’s right, to guarantee the dose will operate!

(He persuades FAUST to step into the circle.)

WITCH

(Reading with much emphasis from the book. The APES murmur and croon a hideous accompaniment.)

This understand, make one into ten, drop two out of hand, three balance again,

Then you are rich, on the word of the witch!

From four and six, the five transfix, make seven and eight fulfilling the fate:

And nine makes one, and ten is none!

And witch’s one times none is done!

FAUST

What nonsense she declaims before us! My head is nigh to split, I fear!

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It seems to me as if I hear a hundred thousand fools in chorus!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Worthy Sybil, that will be enough, give now thy potion, dispense the stuff!

With lavish hand, overbrim the bowl, my friend will drink no ruin from thy craft,

For here we have a learned soul, who’s tried the strength of many a potent draught!

(The WITCH pours the drink into a cup, and passes it to FAUST.)

Down with it, man, don’t hesitate, it warms those parts most intimate!

(FAUST drinks it. The WITCH breaks the circle.)

And now, away, thou dare not rest.

WITCH

And from my potion may thou benefit!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(To the WITCH.)

And if thou have a favour to request, upon Walpurgis night just mention it!

(To FAUST.)

Come, walk at once, and follow my lead, a perspiration is thy greatest need,

To drive the potion with coursing speed.

Within, without, through body, heart and mind, Cupid shall stir thy thoughts on womankind!

FAUST

Ah, let me to that mirror where before I stood, to see that lovliest girl afresh!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Nay, friend, that paragon of lovliness thou soon shalt see in the very flesh!

(Aside, to himself with satisfaction, as FAUST exits.)

A dose like that within your guts, my boy, and every wench thou sees is Helen of Troy!

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(MEPHISTOPHELES exit, leaving the WITCH and APES capering and cackling with laughter.)

INTERMISSION

SCENE VI

A STREET IN THE TOWN

(Various townspeople passing by. FAUST is in the crowd, looking intently at the women. Suddenly he sees the one he seeks, MARGARET, and heads to her)

FAUST

Fair lady, let it not offend you, if arm and escort I would lend you!

MARGARET

I’m neither lady, neither fair, and home I can go without your care!

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(She exits.)

FAUST

By Heaven, that girl is wondrous fair, of all I’ve seen, beyond compare.

So sweetly virtuous and pure, and yet, a little pert, be sure!

The lips so red, the cheek’s clear dawn I’ll not forget while time rolls on!

(MEPHISTOPHELES enters.)

Listen, of that girl I’d have possession!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Which then?

FAUST

The one who just went by!

MEPHISTOPHELES

She, there? She’s coming from confession, of every sin absolved; for I,

Behind her chair was listening nigh.

So innocent she is, indeed, that to confess she had no need.

I have no power over souls so green.

FAUST

And yet, she’s older than sixteen!

MEPHISTOPHELES

So now you’re talking like Jack Rake, who every flower for himself would take,

And fancies there are no favours more, nor honours, save for him in store.

Sometimes, accept, thou can’t succeed.

FAUST

Most worthy Pedagogue, take heed! Let not a word of moral law be spoken!

I claim, I tell thee, all my right; and if that image of delight rests not within my arms tonight,

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At midnight then, our pact is broken!

MEPHISTOPHELES

But think the chances of the case, I need at least a fortnight’s space,

To find an opportune occasion.

FAUST

Had I but seven hours for all, I would not on the Devil call,

But win the girl by my own persuasion!

MEPHISTOPHELES

I tell you, once for all, that speed with this fair girl will not succeed!

By storm she cannot captured be; we must make use of strategy!

FAUST

Then prepare a gift, the best that wealth can get, For upon that beauty my heart is set!

(FAUST exits angrily.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Presents, so soon? He’ll win her, no doubt.

Full many a pretty place I know, with treasure buried long ago.

I’ll go and get his baubles sorted out!

(Exits, laughing quietly to himself.)

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SCENE VII

EVENING, MARGARET’S ROOM

(A small, simple, neatly kept room. A crucifix sits on the bedside table. MARGARET is combing her hair.)

MARGARET

I wish I knew who he may be who stopped today and spoke to me.

Surely a gallant man was he, and of a noble family.

I saw such in his brow and bearing – or else, he’d never be so daring!

(MARGARET exits. A moment later, FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES quietly enter through another door. FAUST is lost for words, enchanted. MEPHISTOPHELES, carrying a casket,

looks about with disdain, and curls his lip at the crucifix.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Step softly in, come, follow me.

FAUST

Leave me alone, I beg of thee!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Rolling his eyes, exasperated.)

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Here is the casket, here may be seen a treasury fit for a queen.

Quick, lay it by her bedside there; here’s stuff to turn her head, I swear!

FAUST

Should I, or should I not?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Ask thou, pray? You, yourself, would keep the treasure?

Waste my labour and my leisure?

I trust its not by greed thou art led; trust thy lust will lead to her bed!

(FAUST glares at MEPHISTOPHELES, who grins knowingly and places the casket under the table.)

Away, with speed, without thy glare. Thy gift shall win thy deepest prayer. Away!

(FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES exit. MARGARET enters in her nightdress. She stops suddenly, as if in fear.)

MARGARET

It is so close, so sultry here, and yet ‘tis not so warm outside.

I feel, I know not why, such fear! A loathing I can scarce abide!

I am a silly, frightened thing, to start such foolish shuddering!

(SHE sits at her table, kicking the casket beneath.)

How comes this casket here to me? ‘Tis not my own, most certainly.

Perhaps ‘tis security freely paid against a loan my mother made.

Here hangs a little key to fit – I’m of a mind to open it!

(SHE opens the casket, and falls back in shock.)

Dear God! Such things! More dazzling fair than any I could dream to wear!

A simple lass in such, if seen, would glow more brightly than a queen!

(SHE holds up some of the jewels, admires them on herself in the mirror.)

How would this necklace look on me, these gems so brilliant and so rare;

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These earrings, how I wish them mine; they lend me such an elegant air!

(SHE puts them back with a sigh.)

What use one’s youth, e’en beauty, too, if one is poor our future’s set,

For men may praise one’s fairness, true, but without wealth they soon forget.

The lure of gold will always hold the heart well sure – alas, we poor!

SCENE VIII

A STREET IN THE TOWN

(FAUST is pacing up and down, MEPHISTOPHELES enters in a rage.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

By love that’s scorned, by the fires of hell, and every other curse as well!

FAUST

What ails thee? Why this dire face? I’ve never heard thee swear so base!

MEPHISTOPHELES

I’d have the Devil devour my soul, if I weren’t the Devil myself!

(FAUST laughs, and MEPHISTOPHELES calms himself, still disgusted.)

Just think, the pockets of a priest should get the treasures we left for Margaret!

Her mother spied them, as she must, and filled her with a deep mistrust.

Keen scent she has for tainted air; she snouts within her book of prayer,

And smells each article to see if sacred or profane it be.

And so she guessed, from every gem that not much blessing came with them!

“My child!” she said, “ill-gotten good ensnares the soul, consumes the blood.

Before the Mother of God we’ll lay it; with heavenly manna she’ll repay it!”

The mother fetched a priest, without delay, and no sooner than the tale was uttered,

he knew which side his bread was buttered!

He spake; “This is the proper view – who overcometh greed, winneth too.

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The Church alone, beyond all question, for ill-gotten gains has the right digestion!”

He then bags the pendants and bracelets and rings

as if they were the commonest shopping things.

And thanked no less, and thanked no more than if a sack of nuts he bore.

Promised them reward where angels abide, and left them feeling highly edified!

FAUST

And Margaret?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Sits in discontent, unwilling to resign, or to resent.

Thinks on the jewels day and night, and thinks on him who gave such delight!

FAUST

My dearest’s pain is a terrible story – go, get more gems of even greater glory!

Fix and arrange it to my will, and on her neighbour try thy skill.

I want no excuses, no secret rules, but fetch my love the greatest jewels!

(FAUST exits angrily. MEPHISTOPHELES bows mockingly.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Yes, gracious sir, your servant am I!

Smitten thus, the fool will have his say, and blow the planets from the starry sky,

To help his darling pass the time away!

(HE exits.)

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SCENE IX

MARTHA’S HOUSE

(A living room, pretentiously and tastelessly furnished. MARTHA is praying, rather melodramatically.)

MARTHA

Forgive my husband, I pray, Good Lord, him what went bolting off abroad,

Content to treat me rough and raw, then leave me lonely on the straw.

And truly, I did naught to fret him, God knows I loved, and can’t forget him!

(SHE conspicuously weeps.)

Perhaps he’s breathed his final breath – I wish I had a certificate of death!

(MARGARET enters, agitated, with a casket concealed under her cloak.)

MARGARET

Martha!

MARTHA

Margaret, what ails thee?

MARGARET

I find that I can barely stand, cans’t still the trembling of my hand!

Another casket’s come for me, hid in my room, of ebony!

So full of riches, fit to burst, and richer far than was the first!

MARTHA

You mustn’t tell it to your mother, or priests will have it, like the other!

MARGARET

But look, dear Martha, look and see.

MARTHA

Ah, would such luck should come to me!

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MARGARET

But in the street I dare not bear them, nor in the church be seen to wear them!

MARTHA

Then visit over here to me, and dress in these where none can see,

And walk before the mirror here, a joy for both of us, my dear.

And then, perhaps one holiday, piece by piece thou can display;

A chain, then pearls, and from your mother we’ll hide them, or invent some tale or other!

MARGARET

Who is it has brought me things so precious? Something is wrong – I feel suspicious.

(A knock at the door.)

Dear God – my mother! Is she at the door?

MARTHA

(Peering through the curtain.)

No! A gentleman I’ve never seen before. Come in!

(She opens the door, and MEPHISTOPHELES enters.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

That I so boldly introduce me, I beg thee, ladies, to excuse me!

(Steps back modestly on seeing MARGARET.)

For Martha Schwerdtlein I’d inquire!

MARTHA

I’m she. What does the gentleman desire?

MEPHISTOPHELES

It is enough that you art she; but you’ve a guest of high degree!

Pardon this freedom I have taken – I later shall return again!

MARTHA

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Of all the things in this world to hear – he takes you for a lady, my dear!

MARGARET

(Flustered, removing the jewellery.)

I am a creature young and poor – the gentleman’s too kind, I’m sure.

The jewels don’t belong to me.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Ah, not alone the jewellery! The look, the manner, both betray!

(Bows to MARTHA.)

Rejoiced am I that I may stay!

MARTHA

But say what business brings you here.

MEPHISTOPHELES

I wish it were of greater cheer.

Pray don’t assume myself to blame, but thy husband’s dead – I greet you in his name.

MARTHA

Is dead? Alas, that heart so true! My husband dead! Let me die too!

MARGARET

Dear friend, let not your courage fail.

MEPHISTOPHELES

And let me relate the mournful tale!

In Padua, laid to rest is he, beside the good St. Anthony.

Within a grave well consecrated, for cool, eternal rest created.

MARTHA

And have thou nothing more, no pledge to bring?

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MEPHISTOPHELES

Alas dear lady, not a single thing!

MARTHA

What! Not a lucky coin, nor jewellery? What every man within his wallet spares,

And as a keepsake with him bears, and rather starves or begs, than loses?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Madam, it is a grief to me, yet his cash was put to proper uses.

Besides, his penitence was very sore, and he lamented his ill luck all the more!

MARGARET

Alas, that men are saddened with such cares; I’ll not forget him in my prayers

MEPHISTOPHELES

Such kindness, compassion; a girl so true should surely think of getting wed!

MARGARET

On no! Tis not yet meet to do!

MEPHISTOPHELES

No husband? Then, a lover instead!

It is the greatest heavenly blessing to have a love for thy caressing!

MARGARET

Our country’s custom is not so!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Custom or not, it happens, though!

MARTHA

Pray, continue!

MEPHISTOPHELES

I stood beside his bed of dying; such heavy sins to his account were lying!

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Said he: “I find it entirely hateful to leave wife and trade in manner ungrateful!

Ah, the rememberance makes me die! Would of my wrongs to her I might be shriven!”

MARTHA

The dear, good man! Long since was he forgiven!

MEPHISTOPHELES

“I was to blame, God knows, but she, far more!”

MARTHA

Lies! At death’s door, to say such a lie!

MEPHISTOPHELES

If I know anything to judge him by, he rambled as he neared the distant shore.

He said,” I had no time for play, for innocent freedom,

First children, then work for the bread to feed ‘em.

When I say bread, the broadest sense is meant – with mine I had no freedom or content!”

MARTHA

And this despite devotion on my part, my work and worry, my poor broken heart!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Fear not that he spent his final weeks alone, for fortune had at times upon him smiled.

He had a small fortune to call his own, and pretty wenches thus to keep him beguiled!

MARTHA

The wretch! To rob his children and his wife! No misery could teach his wicked head,

Or turn him from his shameful ways of life!

MEPHISTOPHELES

How true; but that’s precisely why he’s dead!

Were I in thy place, do not doubt me, I’d mourn him decently a year,

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But for another keep my eyes about me!

MARTHA

Ah me! No sweeter fool could ever be; there was that only one for one such as me!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Just think, it could have turned out very nice if he had just winked at waywardness in you!

A supple rule for both is my advice!

Upon such terms, why, I myself would woo, buy thee a ring, and promise to be true!

MARTHA

(Blushing, childishly flattered.)

Oh, sir, surely you speak in jest!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(With a searching look at MARGARET.)

Have not all of us hearts within our breast?

(MARGARET looks away, confused. MEPHISTOPHELES elaborately bows.)

Ladies, farewell!

MARTHA

One moment! Can thou supply some evidence certified, where he is buried, how and when he died?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Two witnesses are needed for thy case, so legally thy husband is settled in one place.

I have a friend of high condition, who’ll also add his deposition.

May I present him?

MARTHA

Of course! Pray do!

MEPHISTOPHELES

And shall this young lady be present, too?

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A gallant lad he is, has travelled wide, and knows how true ladies should be gratified.

MARGARET

Before him I should blush, sir, before him stand ashamed!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Not before any king that could be named.

MARTHA

Behind the house, in my garden, then, tonight we’ll expect the gentlemen!

SCENE X

A STREET IN THE TOWN

(FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES meet.)

FAUST

How goes it? What news? Is’t soon complete?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Ah, bravo! To see thy heart so burning! Dear Margaret will soon calm your yearning.

At neighbour Martha’s you’ll this evening meet –

A fitter woman ne’er was made to ply the pimp and gypsy trade!

FAUST

‘Tis well.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Yet something is required from us.

FAUST

One service pays the other thus.

MEPHISTOPHELES

We only must prove beyond a doubt her husband lately was laid out

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In Padua, in consecrated soil.

FAUST

Most wise! So now, we make the journey there?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Sancta simplicitas! No need of such toil!

We swear an oath, ‘tis done without care!

FAUST

Is that the best that thee can do? I’ll not swear false to what is not true!

MEPHISTOPHELES

O man of virtue! A new leaf turned?

Is this the first time in thy life you’ve borne false witness for thy own pleasure?

A few choice words to please a wife that she’s free to chase a new endeavour?

Will thee not tonight do thy best to fool poor Margaret on thy part?

And to her thy deepest love attest?

FAUST

From the bottom of my heart!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Oh, honest man! Will you impart to Margaret how I play my part?

FAUST

(Trapped, angry, but desperate for MARGARET.)

No more, I view this chatter with disgust, and bow to thee, simply because I must!

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SCENE XI

MARTHA’S GARDEN

(FAUST and MARGARET are strolling together. MEPHISTOPHELES and MARTHA stroll US. The conversations of each pair are heard as they pass DS.)

MARGARET

I feel you’re only condescending, sir, shaming the ignorance you wish to spare.

A man so used to travelling gives to simple folk a kindly air;

But I know too well my poor gossip can never entertain such an experienced man!

FAUST

A look from thee, a word, more entertains than all the lore of the wisest brains!

(He kisses her hand.)

MARGARET

Oh, sir, please no! How could you kiss it? It is so ugly and so rough!

Such work I must do, scour and sand, since for my mother it is never enough.

(They pass US.)

MARTHA

Sir, your travels never cease, you say?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Ah, my trade drives me on, and my duty. ‘Tis sad to find such towns so full of beauty,

(HE gives MARTHA a meaningful look; SHE flusters coquettishly – or so she thinks.)

Knowing full well I must always be away!

MARTHA

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Such a wild life may suit when young, sweeping round this world then seems so brave.

But luck will change, and bad times come. And then to creep alone to one’s cold grave

A stiff old bachelor, is surely wrong!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(In poor melodrama; SHE fails to see the sarcasm.)

I shudder to think of such a fate!

MARTHA

Then, sir, seek a friend before it’s too late!

(SHE takes his arm; HE simpers as if falling for her ‘charms’. They pass.)

MARGARET

Yes, out of sight is out of mind! Your courtesy an easy grace is;

But you have friends in other places much better company than I, you’ll find.

FAUST

Trust me, dear heart, what men call cleverness is oft mere vanity and sad pretence.

MARGARET

How so?

FAUST

Ah, that true souls never know themselves the sacred worth of their own innocence!

Simple love and meekness are sublime, the sweetest gifts of Nature’s grace!

MARGARET

Then think on me for a little space – to think of thee I have endless time.

FAUST

No doubt you spend much time alone?

MARGARET

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Yes, for our household small has grown, yet much must be done, and on my own.

We have no maid, I do the knitting, sewing, sweeping, the cooking early and late, in fact.

And mother, in her notions of housekeeping, is so exact!

Not that we need to keep expenses down; we, more than others, may take comfort, rather,

A nice estate was left by my father. A house, a little garden near the town.

But now, my days have less of work and hurry,

For my brother is a soldier, now abroad.

My little sister – dead.

With her I had my share of toil and pain, but gladly I would do the same again;

She was a child that I adored...

(MARGARET falters, overcome with sad memories. FAUST takes her arm, and their eyes meet.)

FAUST

She was an angel, if she was like thee!

(They pass.)

MARTHA

Ah, yes, we woman are bad off, ‘tis true; a stubborn bachelor there’s no converting!

MEPHISTOPHELES

So it depends upon the likes of you to turn me to better ways than flirting!

MARTHA

Dear sir, have you never known a passionate flame, or held a heart tender in your life?

MEPHISTOPHELES

The proverb says: love of home and wife is wealth past price of gold or jewels or fame!

MARTHA

I mean, have you never felt desire, though ever so slightly?

MEPHISTOPHELES

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I’ve everywhere, in fact, been entertained politely!

MARTHA

(Almost panting.)

I meant to say, have you never been deeply – touched?

MEPHISTOPHELES

I never jest with ladies though my heart be clutched!

MARTHA

Ah, you don’t understand!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Melodramatically feigning consternation.)

I’m sorry I am so blind, but – I am sure that thou art very kind.

(They pass.)

FAUST

And so, you knew that we had met before, and at thy gate, my dove, you recognised me?

MARGARET

Thou knew it from my eyes and lowered look.

FAUST

Wilt thou forgive the liberty I took? My own audacity surprised me,

So to approach you as you left the cathedral door.

MARGARET

I blushed indeed, this was new to me.

I’d always kept modest, and yet such daring must show, I felt, some looseness of bearing!

I thought, some boldness he must see from which at once he’s taken it for granted

That such an immodest wench would give him all he wanted!

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Yet, feeling within me stirred, I can’t deny, pleading your cause – I know not how it grew –

And very angry with myself was I, because I wasn’t angrier with you!

Ah, how I tremble!

FAUST

Tremble not, but let this warm clasp of hands declare what is beyond all words.

To feel such rapture, to yield so wholly – this can never end!

Eternal, I am thine eternally!

(HE grasps MARGARET’S hand. After a moment, she frees herself and runs from him, overcome. After a moment, he follows.)

MARTHA

The night is falling

MEPHISTOPHELES

Ay, we must away.

MARTHA

I’d ask you, longer here to tarry, but evil tongues in this town have full play.

As if no one had nothing to carry or labour, but spy on the doings of each other’s neighbour!

And one becomes the talk, do whate’er one may!

(Peering offstage, desperate to see.)

And where’s our young pair now?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Flown up the alley yonder, like loving summer birds!

MARTHA

He seems her way inclined.

MEPHISTOPHELES

And she for him, you’ll find. And so runs the world away!

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SCENE XII

A FOREST CAVERN

FAUST

(Alone, conflicted.)

Spirit sublime, thou gave to me, gave to me all for which I prayed.

Not to me in vain was thou countenance revealed in fire.

The ranks of living creatures thou dost lead before me, teaching me to know my brothers,

In air and water and the silent wood.

And when the storm in forest roars and grinds, and the giant firs, in falling, fill the hills with hollow thunders,

Then to this cave secure thou leadest me.

Then thou showest me mine own self, and in my breast the wonder of my spirit stands revealed.

But that nothing perfect can be given to man, I do now see.

With this ecstacy, which brings me near and nearer to the gods,

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Thou gave to me the hell-spawned comrade whom I can no longer do without,

Though, cold and scornful, he cheaply demeans me, and with a breath, a word,

Transforms thy gifts to nothingness.

Within my breast he fans a wild fire for Margaret, for that fair and lovely form;

And thus in desire I hasten to enjoyment, and in enjoyment pine to feel desire!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Entering towards the end of FAUST’S musings, scornful.)

Have you not led this life quite enough? One loses pleasure in the same old view.

It’s good, no doubt, to try things out, then off to find something really new!

FAUST

Would that you had something better to do than plague me in my short hour of peace.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Well, then, take thy ease, I’ll say farewell, the chance in fact I’ll gladly seize.

A rude, ungracious churl like thee is mighty difficult to please!

Poor son of earth, could thou alone have led thy life, bereft of me?

I, for a time, have worked the cure; thy fantasies plague thee not at all.

Without me you’d had already, sure, removed thyself from this earthly ball.

But enough of this; thy love sits yonder, by all things saddened and oppressed.

Her thoughts and yearnings seek thee, fonder, a mighty love is in her breast.

(Deeply sarcastic.)

So might thou noble man, so grave, quit thy posing in a cave,

And stepping from this citadel above, reward your poor monkey for her love?

FAUST

Serpent! Snake of snakes!

MEPHISTOPHELES

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(Aside.)

Agreed, if the poison takes!

FAUST

Villian! Go thy cursed ways! Nor dare to speak her blessed name!

She thinks me gone, but I dare not gaze upon her with my heart aflame.

I envy even the communion bread that touches her lips in my stead!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Impatiently.)

Again it seethes, again it glows! Thou fool, go down and comfort her!

All hail to him with steadfast mind! A devils’ nature thou dost bear!

But naught so vile in this world I find, than a devil stricken with despair!

(FAUST rises as if to strike him, but turns and angrily exits. MEPHISTOPHELES chuckles to himself, and elaborately bows ‘after you’ to the empty cave.)

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SCENE XIII

MARTHA’S GARDEN

(MARGARET and FAUST are seated on a bench.)

MARGARET

Promise me, Henry.

FAUST

Love, I promise true!

MARGARET

Tell me what religion means to you.

I know that thou art dear and good and kind, yet doubt if worship weighs much in thy mind!

FAUST

Leave that, my child! Thou know my love is tender;

For thy love, my very blood and life I would surrender,

And as for church and faith, I grant to each his own.

MARGARET

That’s not enough; we must believe theron!

FAUST

Must we?

MARGARET

Of course! Forgive that I persist, but I feel that thou honour not the Eucharist.

FAUST

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I honour it, yes.

MARGARET

But not with faith or need. You never go to mass, or confess your creed.

Do you in believe in God?

FAUST

My darling, who shall dare “I believe in God” to say?

MARGARET

Then thou do not believe?

FAUST

My love, do not misconceive!

Who dare express Him, and who profess Him, saying “I believe in Him!”

When all around, above, below; sky, earth and stars all show

How vast is life, how strong the force that fills thy heart!

And when thou in the feeling wholly blessed art,

Call it then what thou will; call it bliss, heart, love, God!

I have no name to give it!

MARGARET

But still, alas, it troubles me, to see thee in such company.

FAUST

How so?

MARGARET

That man who always accompanies you fills me with horror through and through.

Nothing has chilled me since my life began as has the dreadful presence of that loathsome man!

FAUST

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My sweetest one, have no fear!

MARGARET

My blood runs cold when he is near!

I’m fond of people, wish them well, I long for you more than I can tell,

But his presence is like an evil spell!

I think him a liar, as I live; if I do him wrong, may God forgive!

FAUST

To make the world, all types must there be!

MARGARET

I would not live in his company!

There at my door, as he struts in, he looks around with a mocking grin, and bitter wrath.

He cares for nothing – upon his very face ‘tis writ. And love? I know that he despises it!

I am so happy upon thine arm, so free, so yielding, and so warm,

Then his wrathful presence shrivels up my heart.

(SHE stops, shaken, then gathers herself.)

Forgive me, I am weak, I should go.

FAUST

Shall there never be a quiet hour, to see us fondly plighted?

Heart to heart, and soul to soul united?

MARGARET

If only I slept alone, thou would find the door unbolted this very night.

But my mother’s sleep so light has grown, and if our secret love were known,

‘Twould be my death before the morning light.

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FAUST

Then, angel, our fears are at an end!

(HE produces a small flask from within his robes.)

Here is a phial; within it held a potion for the deepest sleep!

Three little drops add to her drink, then softest dreams upon her senses shall sink!

MARGARET

What would I not do, to give thee pleasure. Within her cup three drops I’ll measure,

And one night’s bliss with thou I’ll keep.

She’ll take no harm, I trust, from this.

FAUST

My love, would I lead thou amiss?

MARGARET

Dearest Henry, thy look, thy touch, compels me to over ride my will.

For thou, already, I’ve done so much there’s scarcely more left to fulfil!

(SHE takes the phial, kisses HIM, and leaves.)

(MEPHISTOPHELES enters.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Your monkey, she has gone?

FAUST

Spying again, thou?

MEPHISTOPHELES

I heard, most fully, how she drew thee. Thy Sunday schooling hast been had, I see!

Much good, I hope, the thing shall do thee, and to thy lust the end shall be!

FAUST

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Thou monster, her every action shows that this pure soul my salvation desires!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Yet so eager, thou art led by the nose, thy lofty thoughts fed by lowlier fires!

(HE rubs his groin, taunting FAUST.)

FAUST

Abortion, thou, of filth and dirt!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Affectedly innocent.)

Her trust in thee must stir thy heart, so keen to take the physician’s part,

The sleeping potion to her mother impart.

FAUST

Thou promised that she would come to no hurt!

MEPHISTOPHELES

I promised thee, a sleep to send, and so I have, on that depend.

(FAUST looks narrowly at MEPHISTOPHELES, unable to read what he is really saying.)

But come, how masterfully she reads a face! My presence fills her with – she knows not what!

Beneath my mask she senses a darker place, beneath my charm the scent of rot!

And in my words a demonic creed – perhaps I’m the very devil, indeed!

But now, tonight -?

FAUST

What’s that to you?

MEPHISTOPHELES

I have my bit of pleasure in it, too!

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SCENE XIV

AT THE WELL

(MARGARET and a neighbour, LISBETH, with pitchers, are drawing water. Other girls are chatting and gossiping around.)

LISBETH

Have you heard of Barbara?

MARGARET

No, not a word. I go so rarely out.

LISBETH

It’s true, Sibyl told me today, she’s played the fool at last, there’s not a doubt.

She with all her airs!

MARGARET

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How so?

LISBETH

A nice to-do! For when she eats and drinks, she’s feeding two!

(LISBETH pantomimes being heavily pregnant, laughing. The other girls move closer to listen. MARGARET looks horrified.)

And so, at last, it serves her right! For months she’s hardly let him out of sight!

Together promenading, at the village and dance parading.

Had to be first, must everywhere shine, and he treated her always to pies and wine,

And she made a to-do with her face so fine.

So mean and shameless was her behaviour, she took all the presents the fellow gave her.

And now we all know that’s not all that he had! So our little blossom has gone to the bad!

MARGARET

The poor young thing!

LISBETH

Is that what you say! When the likes of us were toiling all day?

Locked in by our distrustful parents at night, while she and her lover could take their delight!

On the bench, in the woods, they’d be off for their walk, glibly announcing they’re off for a talk!

So let her repent, now her truth is complete, and stand in the church in a sinner’s white sheet!

MARGARET

He’ll surely take her as his wife!

LISBETH

And play the young husband? Not on your life!

He’s other girls - a brisk young blade like that needs room to ply his trade.

Besides, he’s gone.

MARGARET

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But that’s not fair!

LISBETH

Well, if she gets him, then let her beware!

The boys will snatch the garlands from her head, and we’ll strew her door with chaff instead!

(LISBETH exits, with pompous self-righteousness, with a couple of the girls. MARGARET, confused by her feelings, is watched suspiciously by the others.)

MARGARET

What awful things I used to say when some poor girl had gone astray!

How scornfully I once reviled some silly lass that got with child.

I blessed my stars, with airs so fine; now the reproach and sin are mine!

Yet – all that drives my heart thereto seems so good, so dear, so true!

(MARGARET exits, aware she is being watched by the others, who gossip furiously as she leaves.)

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SCENE XV

NIGHT ON THE STREET

(A group of soldiers enter, stopping near MARGARET’S door. One of them is VALENTINE, MARGARET’S brother.)

SOLDIER

Valentine! The night is young! There’s many a barrel to be sprung!

SECOND SOLDIER

There’s many a wench to be sprung too!

THIRD SOLDIER

Valentine, come, we’ll find one for you!

(VALENTINE, distracted, disengages himself from the group.)

SOLDIER

Now lads, remember, our good boy there extols his sister beyond compare.

Dear Margaret waits beyond yon door; the rest of you, what are you waiting for?

There’s lasses aplenty, there’s song and there’s brew; our campaign is ready!

OTHER SOLDIERS

And our weapons are too!

(THEY exit, laughing.)

VALENTINE

And so, I have sat with many a crowd of such merry comrades, boasting aloud,

Each of them drinking to his favourite lass, to pledge to her beauty with many a glass.

Then on my elbows I would lean, in quiet confidence supreme,

And listen while they bragged and sang, and round the table the praises rang.

Then I would rise and raise my hand, “Each to his taste” I’d loudly say,

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“But is there one in all the land as fair as my sister Margaret, pray?

So truly sweet, as good as gold, who can to her a candle hold?”

“Hear, hear!” they cried, “Who could there be? The pride of womankind is she!”

They prayed that they could find a spouse to match a maid so virtuous.

But now – a man could tear his hair, or dash his brains out in despair!

With innuendo’s mocking glee it seems the village laughs at me!

It’s whispered, scornful, at each door, my precious sister, now a whore!

Seduced by clever words and gold, and lured down a shameful path,

Some man has my family’s honour sold, and thus has earned my righteous wrath!

But what comes sneaking there to view? If I see right, I make it two.

If one is he, why then, let drive! He will not leave this spot alive!

(Valentine backs into the shadows as FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES enter.)

FAUST

How flickers in yon window frame an altar lamp with glimmering flame.

It seems such a timid, wavering light, all but swallowed by the night –

I fear my soul doth feel the same.

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Expansively, enjoying himself.)

And I feel like a tom-cat when he prowls, to serenade night with unearthly howls!

Tonight’s endeavours, thou rakish swell, shall entertain myself as well!

In fact, I gain a devilish glee when Margaret gives herself to thee!

(FAUST turns in fury on MEPHISTOPHELES, but at that moment VALENTINE bursts in, sword in hand.)

VALENTINE

By God, how dare thou speak of she? Rat-catcher, viper, fresh from hell!

Come now, her brother waits for thee, and thy companion’s blood as well!

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MEPHISTOPHELES

(To FAUST.)

Sir Doctor, don’t retreat, I pray, stand by; I’ll lead if you’ll but tarry.

Out with thy sword, and don’t delay! You’ve but to lunge, and I will parry!

VALENTINE

Then parry that!

(HE lunges at FAUST; with a flick of his hand, MEPHISTOPHELES turns the blade.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Why not?

VALENTINE

And that!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Quite right!

VALENTINE

I think the devil himself must fight!

(MEPHISTOPHELES flicks his hand again, and VALENTINE drops his sword.)

What’s this? Am I cut? My hand is lame!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(To FAUST.)

Thrust home!

(FAUST lunges with his sword, piercing VALENTINE, who falls with a cry.)

Ha! Now is the puppy tame!

Come quick, ‘tis time for us to fly! Leave him – woulds’t rather that thou die?

(THEY exit just as a crowd appears, gathering around VALENTINE.)

TOWNSPERSON

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Quick, someone, quickly, bring a light!

MARTHA

(Appearing in the crowd.)

They swear and storm, they yell and fight!

SECOND TOWNSPERSON

Here lies one dead already – see!

MARTHA

The murderers, whither have they run?

(SHE kneels beside VALENTINE and turns him over, recoiling as she recognises him. MARGARET enters through the crowd.)

MARGARET

Who lies there?

MARTHA

(Looking up in a sudden silence.)

‘Tis thy mother’s son!

MARGARET

Dear God almighty, no!

(SHE falls to her knees beside him. HE stirs, recognises her, and grasps her arm.)

VALENTINE

(Gasping, but gaining strength with his anger.)

I’m dying – that is easily said, and still more easily done.

My Margaret, so young, so sweet, should be more clever and discreet!

Your secret’s known, your sin, what’s more, and so proclaims thee as a whore!

MARGARET

My brother! Dear God! Such words to me?

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VALENTINE

Our Saviour’s name thou should let be!

What’s done’s already done, alas, what follows it must come to pass.

You’ve started secretly with one, but others soon will scent the fun;

Soon two, then four, a dozen men, and all the town can have you then!

So hide thyself in some foul place, with beggars, sinners and disease,

Forgiveness be as God shall please; on earth, live damned in rank disgrace!

MARTHA

(Horrified, partly in guilt.)

Ask for thy soul our God’s redeeming, not spend thy final breath blaspheming!

VALENTINE

Thou pimp most infamous, be still! Could I thy withered body kill

‘Twould bring, for all my sinful pleasure, forgiveness in the richest measure!

(MARTHA falls back as if struck; the crowd pull away from her.)

MARGARET

My brother, this is hell’s own pain!

VALENTINE

I tell thee, from thy tears refrain!

When thou from honour didst depart, it stabbed me through the very heart!

Now through the slumber of the grave, I go to God as a soldier brave!

(VALENTINE dies. MARGARET falls on his body, embracing him. In the ensuing silence, she looks up at the crowd for help. There is only stony reproach. Finally she turns to MARTHA,

who, after glancing around at the crowd, and seeing which way the wind is blowing, haughtily turns her head, and leads the crowd away, leaving MARGARET alone on stage

with VALENTINE.)

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SCENE XVI

THE CATHEDRAL

(MARGARET kneeling at prayer, conspicuously isolated from the congregation around her. Behind her, embracing the back of her head with its bony fingers, an EVIL SPIRIT whispers

to her.)

EVIL SPIRIT

How otherwise was it, Margaret, when thou, still innocent,

Camest here to the altar, and from thy well worn little book,

Thy prayers didst prattle,

Half in childish pattern, and half with a heart for God.

Margaret! Where tends thy thought?

Within thy bosom, what hidden crime?

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Prayest thou for mercy on thy mother’s soul, sent by thy hand to sleep in endless pain?

How easily thou took the poisonous phial, how easily thou shook away the blame!

And at thy door, whose blood was spilt, in horror of thy public shame?

Here once again, thine is the guilt, thy brother’s death, thy family name.

Ah! And now what stirs beneath thy breast, another heart in lust conceived.

An infant, denied at thy behest! Thou hast lost all thou once believed!

MARGARET

Dreadful, dreadful!

Would I were free from these ghastly thoughts that cross me, against my will, accuse me!

EVIL SPIRIT

Wrath takes thee! The trumpet sounds, shaking the graves!

Now thy soul is shaped anew, from ashen rest to fiery torment,

Awakens, quickens!

MARGARET

(Beginning to collapse, gasping for breath.)

I cannot breathe! The very pillars imprison me!

The vaulted arches crush me! Air, give me air! Show me light!

EVIL SPIRIT

Thinkest to hide thyself? Nay, sin and shame are never hid!

Speakest thou of light and air? Woe to thee, poor wretch.

Light and air shall be as a distant memory!

They turn their faces from thee, the redeemed.

The pure in heart shudder to reach their hands to thee, refuse thee!

Wretched, wretched – damned!

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(The EVIL SPIRIT pulls away into the darkness; released from its grip, MARGARET collapses. She reaches out a hand to those around her, who now look on in horror.)

MARGARET

Neighbour, sister, thy hand!

(She collapses in a faint. A PRIEST pushes through the crowd, and holds out his crucifix, making the sign of the cross against her.)

SCENE XVII

WALPURGIS NIGHT AND FAUST’S VISION

(FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES are in the Hartz Mountains, a wilderness. The night is stormy – Walpurgis Night, the night of witches’ revelry.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

So, good Doctor, art thou ready, thy heart prepared for what will pass?

This night, Walpurgisnacht, is heady ‘though only glimpsed through darkened glass!

What thou shalt see, shalt hear, or dream, in crowded ranks of hell’s own spawn

Would stop the heart’s insanguined stream in lesser men that earn thy scorn!

FAUST

Cease thy prattling; hast thou forgot my fell companions ere we met?

I had perceived the spirit sphere, had glimpsed where God his sceptre set!

Thy witches, hags, afright me not, thy basest apes, thy golems, sprites,

So lead me on, I have no fear, this blackest of thy cursed nights.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Well said! All hail, thou gallant soul, ask not for whom the bell shall toll!

This night a mere diversion be, one night for mine own revelry.

These months past since thy bloody deed hath imposed a wearisome drill,

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And spurred in me a frivolous need; tonight shall I my needs fulfill!

FAUST

Thou speakest of my flight as ‘twere an inconvenience, a mere caprice!

I tell thee, since that fight, my bloodied hands have never known true peace.

My sleep brings dread, dark nightmares full of blameless victims against me set,

Yet more, mine heart doth ache for love, to touch my dearest Margaret!

She weeps, thou say?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Assuredly, for her brother’s death, more for thy loss.

She blames thee not, her love so pure; ‘tis I she holds must bear that cross!

Alas, the town is against thee set, the constables with warrants armed,

So bide we must, till gone the threat, unless, good Doctor, thou be harmed!

FAUST

But still, thou swear, my Margaret....

MEPHISTOPHELES

She waits, secure, cans’t not forget.

But come, a storm awaits us nigh, far greater than that in thy heart,

‘Twould rend and shake the very sky, with thunderous roil and lightening dart.

Behold the earth wherein lies crawling salamander, rodent, snake:

The elements themselves are brawling, the rain against the fire drake!

The night with mist is deepest black – Hark! how the forests grind and crack!

Tempests furious whirl and shriek where the storms their wreckage wreak.

Through the havoc-littered gorges howl the wind’s unpitying scourges!

Hearest voices in the height, near or distant in the night?

Now, the mountain range along sweeps a chanting, maddened song!

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WITCHES’ CHORUS

(Voices from above.)

The way is long, the way is broad, whence comes the frantic wheltering horde?

Broom can scratch and fork can poke, womb may burst and infant choke!

The way is wide, the way is long! See, what a wild and crazy throng!

(WITCHES and WARLOCKS and grotesque creatures begin to appear.)

Here’s potions if your courage fails, and rags and clouts shall serve for sails.

A trough for swine shall carry thy flight – she’s damned who cannot fly tonight!

(A mass of WITCHES alights. MEPHISTOPHELES ushers FAUST to one side, to watch unobserved.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

See, they glow and stink and burn, the true witch-element we learn!

Keep close, observe this riotous cheer before I announce my presence here.

FAUST

Wilt thou, to introduce us to the revel, assume the part of wizard or of devil?

MEPHISTOPHELES

Though incognito I’m oft to go, on gala-days one’s pride ought to show!

My rank requires no garter for proof – my folk will honour the cloven hoof!

Do you spy yon snail, come creeping up to me? She with her groping, feeling face?

She hath caught a whiff of my dark majesty, and this I cannot hide in such a place.

But now, I hear the sound of instruments attuning;

Vile din! But one must learn to bear the crooning!

Look yonder, thou canst scarcely see the end, a hundred fires light thy path to wend!

They dance, they cook, they spell, they couple, they court;

Now where, just tell me, where is there better sport?

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(With a flourish, MEPHISTOPHELES steps forth. There is a collective gasp, a pause in the revelry, and then the entire gathering erupts into chaotic delight and fawning reverence.)

OLDEST WITCH

(Falling on her knees, slobbering over MEPHISTOPHELES’ feet.)

With deep respect we here salute His Lordship of the cloven foot!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(With complete disdain.)

Your deep respect may hold thy thrall;

(Suddenly wildly, lasciviously welcoming.)

Just let me have my way withal!

(HE embraces the WITCH grotesquely, kissing her. FAUST looks away in disgust. The crowd goes wild with malicious glee.)

On Brocken’s peak, let thy magic swell!

Let those who quail be damned to hell!

(A crazy, wild dance ensues, with MEPHISTOPHELES at its centre. FAUST backs away to the side, then spies a pale figure gazing at him, silent, alone.)

FAUST

Mephisto! Seest thou there, alone and far, a girl most pale and fair?

She falters on, her way scarce knowing, as if with fettered feet that stay her going.

As I live, I think I recognise, my dearest Margaret before my eyes!

(HE starts to cross to the figure. MEPHISTOPHELES emerges from the throng and stops him.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

Let that alone. Such thoughts nip in the bud. This is witchery, a phantom, dead.

To meet with it fatal, full of dread. Its frigid stare congeals the gazer’s blood,

Till stony death through all your limbs is spread, as in Medusa’s tale, of which thee has read.

(MEPHISTOPHELES returns to the dance.)

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FAUST

Indeed, I see the eyes are of the dead, eyes no hand has closed or comforted.

(HE turns away from the figure, which also turns, revealing a vision of MARGARET, kneeling, bound in chains. A feeling makes FAUST turn, and he sees HER.)

Oh, God! What vision is this? What misery and despair!

She, most lovely and innocent, cast into prison, a criminal there!

(HE turns furiously on MEPHISTOPHELES, who, seeing the vision, angrily waves his arm, and the vision disappears behind a surge of witches.)

What hast thou done, liar, abomination?

Thou gavest thy word; even thou, Prince of Lies, are bound by thy own appellation!

MEPHISTOPHELES

She waits, secure, and cannot forget; these were my words, mark them yet!

FAUST

Treacherous affront, unbearable presence!

A prisoner in wretchedness irreparable,

Delivered o’er to spirits abominable,

Handed to the judgement of men unmerciful!

And whilst she suffered, thou lulled me with twisted lies,

Concealed from me her bitter demise,

Suffered her to go hopelessly to ruin!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Coldly, now he has been discovered in a lie.)

She is not the first.

FAUST

Hell-hound! Monster! Speakest now in thy true tongue, a serpent, a toad, that crawls in the dung!

The anguish of this one soul strikes the marrow of my life,

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Whilst thou calmly grin at the damnation of millions!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Scornfully. HE waves away the crowd who, angered at FAUST’S words, had gathered threateningly. Slowly they disappear.)

So here we are at last, at the uttermost end of thy wits, where the petty understanding of man runs wild.

Why didst thou throw in thy lot with me, but not stay the course, a petulant child?

Why yearn to fly, if heights afright thee.

Didst I pursue thee? No, thou chased, most rightly!

FAUST

Gnash not thy devouring teeth at me, thou disgust me, whate’er thy face.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Hast thou finished?

FAUST

Save her, I say, or woe to thee. Our contract’s plain, thou must obey.

I live, and hath not spoken words that praise one moment, or halt time’s flight.

So give to me thy service, dog, or our bond is severed this very night!

MEPHISTOPHELES

I cannot stay the Avenger’s bond, nor change the verdict of Judgement Day.

And if we return ere this long, the warrent still stands for thy murderous fray.

And avenging spirits hover still, to make of thee, murderer, their solemn prey.

FAUST

You dare say that to me?

Murder and death of a world be upon thee, monster!

Take me hither – set her free!

MEPHISTOPHELES

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Then listen close – to this I’ll agree.

Transport thee there, I’ll carry thee hence, lay a cloud on the gaoler’s sense.

Make thee master of the keys, bring horses to bear thee away with ease.

Such is within my power.

FAUST

I grant thee, then, one hour!

SCENE XVIII

PRISON

(MARGARET sits on the floor, hugging her knees, rocking back and forth. She is clearly mad with grief, singing nonsense to herself.)

MARGARET

My mother, the harlot, who put me to death,

My father, the villain, devoured me in wrath!

My sister, so good, laid my bones in the wood, in the damp moss and clay.

Then I was a beautiful bird of the wood.

Fly away, fly away!

(SHE continues mumbling to herself as keys jangle, and the gaol door slowly opens. SHE suddenly shrieks in panic, scuttling back from the door.)

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No! No! They come! Bitter death, the hour is come!

FAUST

(Entering, running to her side.)

Hush, hush, the hour is come that sets thee free! ‘Tis I, my love!

MARGARET

(Not hearing.)

Who, hangman, delivered me into thy power?

Whose was the fatal word to give?

Thou’rt come for me at the midnight hour! Have pity, let me live!

Soon enough comes morning!

(SHE pushes FAUST away.)

I am so young, so very young, and fair I was, that was my death.

My lover, he was close, now gone – take not from me my final breath!

FAUST

(Urgently, fearful of discovery.)

My love, come quick, thou must depart!

MARGARET

Let us kneel, and call on the saints to hide us!

Under the steps beside us, the threshold flickers under,

Hell heaves in thunder!

Satan is here, the shrieking, grim and hideous brim of Hell to uncover!

FAUST

(Desperate, shouting.)

Margaret! Margaret!

MARGARET

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(Suddenly attentive.)

That was the voice of my lover!

FAUST

It is I! I have come for thee! But now, no more delay, I beg thee!

MARGARET

How is it thou hath no dread of me, nor shrink from me?

Know not the creature that you free?

My mother, by my hand, lies dead.

Dead is our child that I did drown!

I cannot remember since that night that my brother fell;

They found me, wandering, my family slain. I’m condemned to hell!

FAUST

Let the past be, the blame is not thine.

Just come, and I shall lay thy heart to rest, but not here, our time is sorely pressed!

Take courage, open stands the door!

MARGARET

(Pushing him away.)

I dare not go, hope is mine no more . Why should I fly? Still they lie in wait.

A wretched life, to beg one’s bread, wretched more to live in dread.

To roam far lands, without a friend, and still they shall catch me in the end!

FAUST

I shall not leave thee! But come, here nearly breaks the day!

MARGARET

Day? Yes, day comes, the last day for me, my wedding day it should have been.

I am seized and bound, delivered before the crowd – the world lies mute as a stone!

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FAUST

(Heartbroken at her despair.)

Would that I had never been born!

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Appearing at the door.)

Away! Lost are you both if you stay, can you not see it is morn? Away!

Useless, such talking, delaying, praying; my horses tremble and sweat! No delay!

Dawn grows bright!

MARGARET

What evil thing is this has risen from the earth?

He! Tis he! Suffer him not! What does he want in this holy spot?

He wants my soul, to torture and condemn – he awaits my death!

FAUST

Nay, thou shalt live!

MEPHISTOPHELES

She is judged!

(FAUST turns to MARGARET in horror, believing her condemned to hell.)

HEAVENLY VOICE

She is saved!

(MARGARET falls to her knees in disbelieving thanks. MEPHISTOPHELES hisses in fury like an enraged cat, his true nature emerging as he realises he has been cheated of his prey. He glares upwards, then at MARGARET, and finally turns slowly to FAUST. FAUST stares

with a loving smile at MARGARET.)

FAUST

I’d see it now, this greatest bliss, this one pure moment’s eternal refrain,

And to this moment, I freely say “Stop, thou art so fair, remain!”

MEPHISTOPHELES

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(Screaming in gloating joy.)

And so thou art mine! Hither to me! Dids’t thou hope I would forget?

I have thy contract in thy blood, against thy soul the wager set!

Remember thou what thou dids’t spurn, one highest moment, one perfect breath,

But this moment thou woulds’t forever yearn, and thus I have thy perfect death!

(MEPHISTOPHELES advances on FAUST, leering wickedly, speaking quietly in barely restrained excitement.)

The jaws yawn wide, the jaws of the abyss, flowing in raging flames, in fury;

And in the boiling, seething hiss, the eternal glow of the infernal city.

The crimson tide breaks upon the teeth, the damned in hope of help swim through,

But hyenas jaws mangle them beneath, and send them new anguish in the brew.

There are many corners to discover, so many horrors in such little space,

And now, my Faust, my little brother, pillager, murderer, find thy place!

MARGARET

Henry! Henry!

(FAUST crosses to her side)

What madness dreams in which I lay, what nightmare now to which I wake,

T’was always he we puppets played – I beg thee, spurn him for our souls’ sake!

FAUST

Fear him not, he hath no power over thee.

For what sins I have drove thee to, I know now thou must die this day,

For human kind must justice mete, whate’er our God might say.

But thy immortal soul to bliss this day shall rise in light;

For thy brother’s death, I too must die, but dwell in eternal night.

MARGARET

Henry, thy words freeze my very soul!

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FAUST

Weep not – to see thee saved, thy sins erased;

I’ll gladly bear the lash of hell’s damnation for that moment’s grace of thy redemption.

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Unwilling to allow the lovers any consolation, he addresses MARGARET.)

Blood shall out, and blood shall bind, no comfort find in these confessions,

But in thy bliss, bear this in mind: in hell he burns for thy transgressions!

(A voice from above as light floods the stage; FAUST and MARGARET fall to their knees, MEPHISTOPHELES glares in fury.)

GOD

Be not so quick to condemn thy prey, thy knavish eagerness too fleet,

For those that you condemn this day shall find their place before my seat.

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Raging.)

What trickery is this – what base deceit?

A bet was laid, and duly paid!

He hath most truly condemned himself, his very words the Judas rope.

We fairly played with contract clear, his blood is mine, he hath no hope!

GOD

His blood and body freely take, art nothing but an empty shell.

His words hath earned his soul my Grace, his husk thou may embrace in hell.

Thou cannot see, for all thy art, how simply Faust his freedom paid;

He longed for joy for another’s heart, not for himself the wish was made.

So though this very day he dies, as in thy contract’s bloody reek,

T’was not thy guile or flattering lies, but love, that moved his heart to speak.

(The light fades, leaving a red dawn.)

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FAUST

I who had no hope, no chance, doth find forgiveness from above.

And yet more ardently I need forgiveness from thee, from my love

MARGARET

Hush, no words, all is said, thy heart and mine, thy soul, thy eyes.

I’ve courage for the hour ahead, tis only crumbling flesh that dies.

FAUST

Together, then, we’ll face that end.

(They embrace, and turn to face their executioners.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

(Moving DS, disgusted with himself.)

I, Destroyer, Father of Lies, Lord of Deceit, the One that Denies,

For whom words are traps I strew in man’s way, find myself trapped at the end of the play!

(He sits on the edge of the stage, contemplating the audience ruefully.)

Intolerable, insufferable, to be thus disdained,

A curse on them all to see me thus vexed.

(His charm returns, a slow smile.)

Yet, much still is offered, and much can be gained –

So ladies and gentlemen, I pray thee – who’s next?

FINIS

CAST

FAUST

MEPHISTOPHELES

MARGARET

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MARTHA, MARGARET’S NEIGHBOUR

WAGNER

VALENTINE

Lisbeth, another neighbour

God

The Archangels: Raphael, Gabriel and Michael

Spirit

Student

Witch and her Apes

Evil Spirit (Male or female.)

Witches and warlocks.

Chorus of Spirit voices

Townspeople – Various peasants, apprentices, ladies, soldiers, beggars, executioners.

Note: all except the first two characters can be doubled if desired; certainly all those characters in lower case should be. The characters from Valentine to Evil Spirit all appear in only one scene each, and would also play Townspeople and Witches or Warlocks.

A cast of about thirty would be best, although larger numbers can certainly be used. The town scenes and Witches’ Sabbath benefit from a good crowd.

The various spirit choruses and witches’ revelry can be set to music, or underscored, or simply chanted.