Do Goethe’s doctrines about sin, salvation, and the nature of the universe as presented in Faust conform to orthodox Christian theology? What use does Goethe make of Christian symbolism in Faust


Although there are many elements of Catholic religious symbolism in this scene, they were adopted by Goethe only because he saw in them a means to give tangible expression to his beliefs, and do not demonstrate his adherence to orthodox Christianity.

Faust has been saved as a result of the heightened knowledge and insight gained through great experience. The presence of all these figures in the place to which Faust’s soul is brought, indicates that striving for union with the ultimate is part of the essential character of all life, and is the basis from which immortality arises.

The angles who bring in Faust’s soul reveal that he has not yet attained Salvation. Now that he has been liberated from sin, however, he will commence his purification and will free himself from the remaining traces of his earthly existence. He will be reborn, in a sense, like the spirits of the innocent children, and with them will rise to the higher levels of Salvation. This indicates the Salvation is most surely gained by altruistic concern for others, which is also the message of Faust’s great project in behalf of humanity. The striving which characterized Faust’s life will be continued, but in another sphere and another form.

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