Book Review of Faust

Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a short story that is about a scholar Faust, who goes on a journey with the devil, and through his experiences he develops a complex character. Faust’s character is very multifaceted, where he can be perceived as a hero as he has great intentions and goals for himself and wants to benefit the world, but on the other hand, certain actions and experiences throughout his journey with the devil make him a terrible person. A person crosses the line to becoming a villain when they negatively affect other people’s lives and have a harmful impact on the world.  Faust crossed this line and became a villain when he met Gretchen and completely ruined her life, innocence, and family.  Originally having goals to gain knowledge and learn as much as he could, Faust soon turned into a selfish, greed driven antihero who only cared about what he wants regardless of whom it hurt. In my opinion, despite having good morals and ambitions, Faust became a villain when he destroyed Gretchen’s life. This short story is so amusing to read because of the density of Faust’s character as he goes on his journey.

Faust Wiki