As you all agree that The Tragical History of Dr. Faustus will be our next text for study (Chaucer's The Pardoner's Tale in the 1-2-1 and Wednesday sessions for those who would like an additional text), then we really need to get on.  To that end, and as you all felt that the production we saw at the Royal Exchange Theatre was far better, certainly far funnier, than the DVD production, then I'd like you to access the following links, the first to a review of the play: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTJ4q8aPsoI

the second will allow you to watch the two main actors in that particular production talk about their preparations:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnkoD267PvU&feature=related 

 Read The Guardian review of the production, which has some interesting comments. 

http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2010/sep/14/doctor-faustus-review

 
 

Have a look at the story of Icarus and see if you can explain why Faustus, like Icarus, was known as the Overreacher.

Make sure you read scenes 1 and 2 for next Monday's lesson; from the outset analyse how Marlowe presents the two main protagonists: Faustus and Mephistophilis.  Use the blue book to help you to identify the Gothic elements, make notes and bring them to the lesson - along with your opinions!