- 1
What is the significance of Faustus's famous monologue in Act V, Scene 1 ("Was this the face that launched a thousand ships...And none but thou shalt be my paramour" V.1.93-112)? What might Helen of Troy symbolize?
Helen of Troy's famous beauty is what causes Faustus to ask for her as his lover towards the end of the play. Faustus sees in Helen a physical representation of the desires of the flesh he had hoped to find fulfillment in through his pact with the devil--in a sense, Faustus believes she represents the highest realization of his own self-created version of salvation and immortality.
What we learn from Faustus's monologue though is that Helen's powers are...
Join Now to View Premium Content
GradeSaver provides access to 2374 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11027 literature essays, 2795 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.
