Previous
Scene 10
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Doctor Faustus, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Temptation, Sin, and Redemption
The Bargain
The Renaissance Individual
Fate vs. Free Will
Education, Knowledge, and Power
Summary
Analysis
The Duke and Duchess of Vanholt entertain Faustus (and Mephastophilis) at court. Faustus asks the Duchess what he can conjure that would please her, and she asks him to make a plate of grapes appear, since it is the middle of winter (and grapes are only available in the summer). Mephastophilis leaves and brings back grapes. The Duke is intrigued and asks Faustus how he procured grapes in the middle of winter. Faustus answers that when it is winter in Germany, it is summer in opposite parts of the globe. He sent “a swift spirit that I have” (11, 21) to bring the grapes from afar. Faustus encourages the Duchess to eat the grapes, and she says they are the best she's ever tasted. The Duke and Duchess promise to reward Faustus for his display of magic.
Once again, Faustus' great powers are put to lowly uses. Faustus was once a respected, wise scholar. Now he has gained much knowledge and power, but he spends his time currying favor by fulfilling the whims of the powerful. His sinning has hurt not only others, but also his own character.
Themes
Quiz
Test Yourself
