What role does Mephistophilis play in “Doctor Faustus”?

Answer

 What role does Mephistophilis play in “Doctor Faustus”?

Mephistophilis is a key character in Christopher Marlowe’s (1564-1593) “Doctor Faustus” (written in 1592 or 1593). He is a devil who serves Lucifer. He becomes Faustus’s servant for 24 years when Faustus makes a deal with Lucifer. Mephistophilis tempts Faustus and makes sure he remains in sin.

A Devil and Lucifer’s Servant: Mephistophilis comes to Faustus when he tries to summon a devil. He tells Faustus that he does not appear because of Faustus’s magic but because he heard Faustus curse God. This shows that devils are always looking for sinners.

Mephistophilis helps Faustus to make a deal with Lucifer. He sells his soul in exchange for 24 years of unlimited power and wealth. After 24 years, Faustus’s soul will be taken to hell. Mephistophilis is loyal to Lucifer. He says:

“I am a servant to great Lucifer.”

He becomes angry when Faustus tries to disobey Lucifer. 

Servant of Faustus: Mephistophilis becomes Faustus’s servant after the deal. Faustus orders him to bring him knowledge, wealth, and entertainment. Mephistophilis keeps Faustus busy with cheap tricks and pleasures. He brings Helen of Troy to comfort Faustus. He makes sure Faustus never repents. At the end of the play, Mephistophilis is successful in taking his soul to hell.

A Voice of Warning: Even though Mephistophilis is a devil, he warns Faustus at the beginning. He tells him that hell is real and full of suffering. But Faustus ignores these warnings. Mephistophilis explains that he is always in hell and suffering. He says:

“This is hell, nor am I out of it.”

In short, Mephistophilis is a devil and a loyal servant to Lucifer. He makes sure Faustus remains in sin and cannot escape his downfall.