Libido sciendi (desire for knowledge)
Libido sentiendi (desire for sensory experiences),
Libido dominandi (desire for power and control)
3 libidos in Doctor Faustus
Introduction: In the context of the play, the term "libido" refers to the desires and appetites of
the protagonist, Faustus. These are often categorized into three types: the intellectual, the
sensual, and the spiritual libidos.
In the play, Faustus's intellectual libido is evident in his insatiable thirst for knowledge and
power, which leads him to make a pact with the devil to gain supernatural abilities. His sensual
libido is portrayed through his indulgence in physical pleasure and worldly delights, often at
the expense of his soul. Finally, his spiritual libido is represented by his inner conflict and the
fleeting moments of remorse and desire for redemption.
These three libidos intertwine throughout the play, reflecting Faustus's internal struggle and
his eventual tragic fate. The exploration of these different facets of desire and human nature is
a central theme in "Doctor Faustus."
During the tragedy of Faustus, we are introduced to a character that is driven by his libidos. At
the beginning of the play Faustus discovers Necromancy because he has already discarded all
other fields of knowledge in which he considers he already excels. He decides turning into the
dark arts because he is tempted by the possibilities this new power may arise. Before even of
invoking Mephistophelis and sign the contract Faustus speculated about all the great things he
can possibly achieve if he becomes a master of necromancy. Among his fantasies there is being
more powerful than the King of Germany and to be greater than the Pope. This ambition of
being almost like a God, embodied the libido dominandi, the thirst for power of Faustus.
1. Faustus's Yearning for Supreme Power:
"Had I as many souls as there be stars, I'd give them all for Mephistopheles."
This quote emphasizes Faustus's willingness to sacrifice everything, even his own soul, in
exchange for the power he seeks.
2. Desire to Surpass Earthly Rulers:
"All things that move between the quiet poles Shall be at my command."
Faustus expresses his desire to command not only supernatural forces but also all things on
Earth, showcasing his ambition to surpass earthly rulers.
3. Ambition to Surpass the Pope and the King of Germany:
"I'll have them read me strange philosophy And tell the secrets of all foreign
kings."
Faustus's ambition to possess knowledge surpassing that of foreign kings, combined with his
earlier desire to be more powerful than the King of Germany and greater than the Pope,
reinforces his overarching quest for supremacy.
4. God-like Aspirations:
"A sound magician is a mighty god."
Faustus's belief in the god-like powers of a magician reflects his ultimate ambition to attain a
level of divinity through his mastery of the dark arts.
