Mephistopheles

The personage embodies the complete negation of all the values of human being. Borrowing the name from an ancient legend, Goethe completely changed his nature. “I am a part of the force that always wants evil and does the good forever,” as he appears to Faust at the beginning of their acquaintance.

The brightest feature of Mephistopheles is his caustic playfulness. He frequently scoffs at feelings and experiences, over greed and arrogance. As a spirit of doubt, denial, and disbelief, he is opposed to the boundless faith of Faust in humanity. However, in his criticism, there is also a rational grain since he rejects scholasticism.

Mephistopheles fiddles with gold, collecting jewelry boxes and ancient treasures. He does not part with his sword, but he uses it only during a fight with Valentin. In his hands, a falchion turns from the symbol of honor and chivalry into a murder weapon. Mephistopheles continuously communicates with people, presenting himself in various guises.

Mephistopheles refuses from omniscience briefly and decisively: “I am not omniscient, I am only tempted.” Theoretically, absolute power is inseparable from omniscience. The personage cannot immediately bring Gretchen to Faust or give him back his youth. He has three servants, mercenaries Raufebold, Gabebald and Galtefest. For their faithful service, they take a share of military or piracy loot.

In the tragedy, there are numerous scenes where Mephistopheles speaks of the limitations of his might. By his behavior, he is a democrat and a champion of freedom. During Walpurgis Night, he, being one of the recognized masters, tries not to stand out from a general crowd, does not want to join the hellish nobility, gathered on the top of the mountain, and the “lower” evil does not allow him to pass. He remembers his nobility only in case of emergency, using a secret name known only by his own.