I remember reading years ago that the infamous Faust of legend was based on a 15th century German magician, who claimed that he had sold his soul to the devil in order to get magical powers. Interestingly enough, he sounds like some of the heavy metal band members of today. So does anyone know what the deal is with this guy? Did he sell his soul, or was that just a medieval “marketing tool” to get the gullible masses into his tent of magic tricks? Any factual information on this historical figure would be greatly appreciated.
He actually did sell his soul. To the Devil. For real magical powers.
:sigh: Don’t do that to the newbs, Ludovic.
The whole point of the concept of “legend” is that it is presented as factual, but is actually fictional material attached to a few factual instances. So “there was a guy called Faust” is factual, and everything else is fictional. I’m simplifying, but that’s the gist of it. See Wikipedia for further details.
On a recent trip to Germany I dined at Auerbachs Keller in Leipzig, where Goethe used to dine/party, and also where he sets Faust’s first trip with the devil.
Unfortunately the devil did not offer to purchase my soul. Much dissapointment ensued… at least until the wild board arrived! Delicious.
I don’t know if there’s any factual information that he sold his soul to the devil, but I do know I’d discount any stories of someone who sold his unicorn to Santa Claus.
I remember seeing a great cartoon of some famous violinist with satan peering over his shoulder. It wouldn’t suprise me to find out that legends of this nature are often associated with great genius.
Maybe you can get the devil to Rent your soul. Failing that, maybe you could try selling time-shares to him and other demons of the underworld.