Three Scholars

Three Scholars are the epitome of theoretical intelligence and passivity. They are afraid of Faust's intention to learn the basics of magic because they fear the possible consequences for his soul. Validus and Cornelius are asking their teacher to talk with a scientist, hoping that the soundness of the arguments will make him change his mind.

Scholastics appear in the episode with Helen of Troy, warning Faustus about the danger of the resurrection of the dead. They advise to return to God and repent until his spirit was in the power of the devil. It seems that these personages are on the good side, but as soon as a beautiful maiden appears, they are ready to forget their previous recommendations.

Their value in the play is the ability to demonstrate an alternative path that Faust could choose. If he had diligently studied the classical disciplines without applying witchcraft, he could hope for forgiveness and grace after departure. An attempt by friends to save the Doctor strengthens Faust’s guilt in front of his colleagues.

He ignored their arguments, persisting in sins and arrogance. The scholastics represent a narrow, but permitted knowledge, being content with small achievements. Faust is a supporter of deep, unauthorized science, because not every mortal is able to comprehend its value. On the one hand, the scholastics see in the protagonist a wizard capable of performing unprecedented miracles. On the other hand, they sincerely regret him, suspecting the terrible price that he will have to pay.

The last time we see them is when they try to console Faust. He reveals to them the source of his immense power, which plunges their shock. The principal asks to save him from the impending fate, realizing that all their attempts will be in vain. In this way, Goethe emphasizes the drama of the moment, conveying the despair of the personages.