1. The Opening Soliloquy:
- Faustus begins the play by expressing dissatisfaction with traditional fields of knowledge like law, medicine, and theology, indicating a desire for something beyond ordinary boundaries.
2. Conjuring of Mephistopheles:
- Faustus' conjuration of Mephistopheles, the devil's agent, depicts a blatant pursuit of forbidden knowledge. Faustus signs a contract with Mephistopheles, surrendering his soul in exchange for 24 years of service and limitless gratification of his desires.
3. The Seven Deadly Sins:
- Mephistopheles grants Faustus' wish to see the Seven Deadly Sins personified, highlighting his obsession with exploring even the darkest aspects of human nature and moral boundaries.
4. Mocking of Scholars:
- Faustus demonstrates his newfound abilities by mocking scholars, showing off his magic tricks, and questioning their knowledge. This portrays his contempt for conventional wisdom and his hubris in seeking forbidden knowledge.
5. Helen of Troy:
- Faustus' wish to meet and embrace Helen of Troy, the legendary beauty of Greek myth, epitomizes the pursuit of forbidden passions. It suggests Faustus' reckless and unrestrained desires.
6. The Final Reckoning:
- The climax of the play brings Faustus face to face with the consequences of his insatiable thirst for knowledge. Mephistopheles claims his soul, and Faustus is damned for his actions. This serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of seeking knowledge beyond human limitations.
7. The Chorus:
- The Chorus throughout the play functions as a commentator, providing insights and warnings about the dangers of forbidden knowledge and its consequences. The Chorus serves to reinforce the theme and guide the audience's understanding.
Overall, "The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus" repeatedly emphasizes the theme of forbidden knowledge through Faustus' audacious quest for extraordinary powers and supernatural secrets, ultimately leading to his downfall.