Power in Dr. Faustus

I found the theme of power that is prevalent throughout Marlowe’s Dr. Faustus to have a declining nature. At the beginning of the play, Faustus contemplates the multitude of ways in which he could use the power gained from demonic relations. He imagines political power, wealth, and knowledge of the universe, and his desire for them consumes his thoughts so much that he is willing to do anything to get them. He even denies the potential of medieval areas of study such as logic, medicine, and theology in favor of magic and he is willing to sacrifice his social standing, education, and even his soul in order to achieve as much power as possible. Faustus accomplishes the impossible and gains the malicious power that equips him to do anything he wants, however, his desires shift dramatically. He no longer has the ambition to conquer the world and its forces, but instead contents himself with cheap practical jokes. One would imagine that Faustus would become entirely corrupt by the demonic power he now possesses, but instead, he resorts to mediocrity. I think that the best conclusion to draw within the boundary of Marlowe’s authorship is that ambition is a gift from God, and true greatness can only be achieved through Him. Once Faustus alienates himself from God, he no longer desires to do anything, even with the power of the world at his fingertips.