Reviews tagging 'Toxic friendship'

Faust: A Tragedy, Parts One and Two by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

1 review

littleredhat's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

In this renowned tale, philosopher and scientist Faust makes a dark deal with the demon Mephistopheles: selling his soul to the Devil in exchange for untold knowledge and power. Part I explores his doomed romance with, and the corruption and destruction of, the virtuous maiden Gretchen. Part II follows Faust's journey through time and space: manipulating an Emperor and pursuing the famed beauty, Helen of Troy. Has Faust fallen into mortal peril, or does his soul still have a chance of salvation?

Although this particular translation has been performed, its poetic stucture makes it function as a read-only text, even though it is sometimes slow-flowing and a little difficult to read. Heavy symbolism and some truly complex, lyrical language features here, especially in Part II... where a working knowledge of Greco-Roman myth also helps a bunch. I personally preferred Part I of the play, as I became quite invested in the story of Faust and Gretchen, and Mephistopheles gets some great fourth-wall breaks and some really witty lines.

A classic story that should be read and enjoyed, but I'd understand if you preferred a lighter version with more accessible language!

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