Goethe's Faust Author:Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe, Walter Kaufmann (Translator) The original German and a new translation and introduction by Walter Kaufmann. — Part one, the first scene and last act of Part two, a synopsis of the and excerpts from the omitted portions are included. — The best translation of Faust available, this volume provides the original German text and its English counterpart on facing pages. Walter Kauf... more »mann's translation conveys the poetic beauty and rhythm as well as the complex depth of Goethe's language.
Faust is ever frustrated in his quest for knowledge and the true essence of life. By this, he attracts the attention of the Devil, Mephistopheles. Faust makes a deal with the Devil for more knowledge and power, agreeing to give his soul to Mephistopheles on the moment that Faust reaches the zenith of happiness. Faust believes this moment will never come. Yet happiness does arrive to Faust, in the form of the young and beautiful Margaret. Mephistopheles cleverly brings the two together in a lustful and ultimately tragic affair. Margaret and her family are destroyed by Mephistopheles' deceptions and Faust's desires.« less