English 434
Dr. Desmet
Spring 1997
As you will readily see when you look at the B text of Doctor Faustus, much of the text is the same as the A text. Use this as a guide to focus your reading so that you can readily see the differences between them.
In his introduction to our edition of Marlowe, David Bevington notes two main differences between the texts. In B the comic episodes are expanded and expatiated upon. Furthermore, B has a new theological orientation. Faustus has more volition in his choice of evil, God is more benign, and Mephistopheles take a more active, sinister role in tempting Dr. Faustus to damnation (xvi).
1. 2.1 Does Faustus have more desire for knowledge in the A or the B text? In which text is Faustus more interested in magic and conjuring? How has his character changed in B?
2. 2.2 How are Robin and Dick different in the two versions of this scene?
3. 2.3 In which version, A or B, is Faustus more responsible for his own damnation?
4. 3.1 How does the introduction of the Chorus before 3.1 change your view of Faustus, and particularly of his power and responsibility for evil? Why is the Chorus given a part here in the B text? How does the addition of the episode with Bruno and the Pope change your understanding of Faustus and his desires?
5. 4.1 What is the effect of the episode involving Benvolio and his sudden acquisition of horns? Is there any reason why the Chorus is removed from 4.1 in the B text? Are there any differences in the scene involving Alexander the Great and his paramour?
6. 4.6 Why do you think that the episode with the horse courser has been expanded in the B text?
7. 5.1. Look at the differences between the two versions of the Old Man's speech (34 ff in the B text).
8. 5.2 How are the Good and Bad angels different in the A and B versions of this scene?
9. 5.3 How does the final scene differ in each version? Think particularly about your own experience of seeing/understanding that Faustus has gone to hell and the way in which he is transported there.