FAUSTUS: Settle thy studies, Faustus, and begin
To sound the depth of that thou wilt profess:
Having commenc’d, be a divine in shew,
Yet level at the end of every art,
And live and die in Aristotle’s works.
Act I, Scene 1 — Faustus's Opening Soliloquy — The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus
Doctor Faustus reviews his mastery of various academic disciplines—logic, medicine, law, and divinity—only to find them insufficient. He ultimately rejects traditional scholarship in favor of the dark arts and necromancy to achieve god-like power.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Drama · Source: The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus · Author: Christopher Marlowe · Characters: Faustus
About This Scene
This powerful monologue from Christopher Marlowe's Doctor Faustus introduces us to the titular character at a pivotal moment. Faustus, a brilliant scholar, systematically dissects and ultimately dismisses the traditional academic pursuits of his era: logic, medicine, law, and divinity. Through this intellectual journey, he reveals a profound dissatisfaction with the limitations of conventional knowledge and a burning desire for something more, setting the stage for his fateful turn towards the forbidden.
Character Analysis
Faustus is a highly intelligent, ambitious, and deeply unsatisfied individual. He embodies the archetypal "leading man" who, despite his intellectual gifts, feels an existential void that academic success cannot fill. He is an anti-hero due to his rebellious nature against established norms and his intense, almost obsessive, pursuit of ultimate power, which he believes can only be found outside the bounds of traditional thinking. His sophistication lies in his articulate dismissal of established wisdom, even as his ultimate motivations betray a youthful, almost naive, hunger for god-like abilities.
Why This Works for Auditions
This monologue is an excellent choice for auditions because it showcases a substantial emotional and intellectual arc within a concise timeframe. Actors can demonstrate their ability to command a classical text, portray complex thought processes, and build intensity from a point of intellectual analysis to a decisive, rebellious declaration. The scene demands a strong vocal and physical presence, allowing the performer to exhibit their leading man potential and their capacity to embody an intense, sophisticated character grappling with profound existential questions.
Best Suited For
This piece is particularly well-suited for male actors aged 25-35 looking to present as a leading man, anti-hero, or intense rebel. It's an ideal selection for drama school auditions, where the ability to handle classical language with clarity and emotional depth is highly valued. It also serves as compelling general practice material for actors seeking to hone their skills in intellectual and emotionally driven monologues, making it perfect for those aspiring to play complex, ambitious characters.
Performance Tips
When approaching this monologue, focus on Faustus's internal journey rather than just the outward declarations. Begin with a sense of methodical contemplation as he evaluates each discipline, allowing his growing dissatisfaction to build. Pay close attention to the rhythm and imagery of Marlowe's language, using it to inform your vocal dynamics and physical choices. Emphasize the shift in his conviction as he moves from analytical critique to an almost euphoric embrace of the dark arts, ensuring the audience understands the monumental nature of his decision and his yearning for power.