Faust

Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1808/1832)

The supreme masterpiece of German literature. Scholar Heinrich Faust, dissatisfied with conventional learning, makes a pact with the devil Mephistopheles: unlimited knowledge and pleasure in exchange for his soul.

Historical Significance:
Goethe spent 60 years writing Faust — from his twenties until his death at 82 in 1832. Part One (1808) is a passionate drama of love and damnation; Part Two (1832) is a vast philosophical allegory. The "Faustian bargain" — selling your soul for worldly gain — has become one of Western civilization's central metaphors, applied to everything from nuclear weapons to social media. The legend predates Goethe (Christopher Marlowe wrote Doctor Faustus in 1592), but Goethe's version is definitive. Composers from Berlioz to Gounod to Liszt set it to music. It is considered the greatest work of German literature.

This public domain classic was originally published in 1808 (Part One) and 1832 (Part Two). Free to read and share.