Faust: A Tragedy in Two Parts with the Urfaust Wordsworth Classics of World Literature ISBN: 9781840221152 Authors(s): Johann Wolfgang von Goethe John R. Williams John R. Williams

About Faust: A Tragedy in Two Parts with the Urfaust:

Translated, with an Introduction and Notes by John R. Williams. Goethe's Faust is a classic of European literature. Based on the fable of the man who traded his soul for superhuman powers and knowledge, it became the life's work of Germany's greatest poet. Beginning with an intriguing wager between God and Satan, it charts the life of a deeply flawed individual, his struggle against the nihilism of his diabolical companion Mephistopheles. Part One presents Faust's pact with the Devil and the harrowing tragedy of his love affair with the young Gretchen. Part Two shows Faust's experience in the world of public affairs, including his encounter with Helen of Troy, the emblem of classical beauty and culture. The whole is a symbolic and panoramic commentary on the human condition and on modern European history and civilisation. This new translation of both parts of Faust preserves the poetic character of the original, its tragic pathos and hilarious comedy. In addition, John Williams has translated the Urfaust, a fascinating glimpse into the young Goethe's imagination, and a selection from the draft scenarios for the Walpurgis Night witches' sabbath - material so ribald and blasphemous that Goethe did not dare publish it.

First Published (if available):
No of pages: 496 Published as: Paperback Genre: Poetry Texts & Poetry Anthologies

Whilst we endeavour to send your book as quickly as possible please allow 4-7 BUSINESS DAYS for delivery. Please do not purchase from us if you require next day delivery. Thanks