FAUSTUS. Had I as many souls as there be stars, I'd give…
“FAUSTUS. Had I as many souls as there be stars, I'd give them all for Mephistophilis. By him I'll be great emperor of the world, And make a bridge thorough the moving air, To pass the ocean with a band of men; I'll join the hills that bind the Afric shore, And make that country continent to Spain, And both contributory to my crown: The Emperor shall not live but by my leave, Nor any potentate of Germany. Now that I have obtain'd what I desir'd, I'll live in speculation of this art, Till Mephistophilis return again.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Faustus trades his soul for power, believing he can reshape the world with Mephistophilis’s aid.
In simple terms: He bargains his soul for worldly domination.
Key Takeaway
Beware the cost of unchecked ambition.
Themes
ambition
power
hubris
magic
consequences
Mood
tragic
dramatic
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political conquest
- scientific breakthroughs
- personal ambition
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
Faustian pact
ego
imperialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What are you willing to sacrifice for greatness?
- Can any ambition justify moral compromise?
A Different Perspective
The promised power may be illusory and lead to ruin.