Goethe's Faust

Faust is the protagonist of a classic German legend who makes a pact with the Devil in exchange for knowledge. The meaning of the word and name has been reinterpreted through the ages. "Faust" has taken on a connotation distinct from its original use, and is often used today to describe a person whose headstrong desire for self-fulfillment leads him or her in a diabolical direction.

Faust is the classic tale of one man's deal with the devil. In this German play, translated into English for this edition, Mephistopheles makes a bet with God that he can tempt Faust. When devil offers to do anything Faust wishes on Earth, the man agrees to serve the devil when in hell.