Faust: A Tragedy In Two Parts & The Urfaust (Wordsworth Classics of World Literature) Paperback – 5 Nov. 1999

I found this very entertaining to read. It is written aesthetically, (and this is maintained in the translation, not that I have read the original German), and is an engrossing story. I'm sure that there are many allusions and philosophical parables to be found in close study of the text, but I just found it an enjoyable read without having to take it too seriously. Mephistopheles is a brilliant comic character, but there are also subtle insights into the depth of his evil as well. The minimalism of the characters other than Mephistopheles and Faust is stylish and makes the story all the more memorable in retrospect. Reading this makes me feel that all stories should be written in verse, if only the authors were skillful enough. Even though I have only studied Shakespeare at the usual school level, I can see what might be Shakespearian influences or things that remind me of Shakespeare; perhaps this was in places done on purpose by Goethe as a tribute to Shakespeare.As far as I can tell, the translator has done a miraculous job. One of my favourite lines in the play is:"But write it all down, concentratingAs if it were the Holy Ghost dictating!"

Excellent thanks

A book I always wanted to read and finally got around to. Yes I had to keep a dictionary next to me; and yes I had to read it twice. On the second reading, once my brain was 'trained' to 'get' it - it was actually a brilliant, mind expanding, thought provoking, piece of brilliance. Will definitely read again.

An interesting and fine translation. It would be very fine, but there are occasional problems with the metrics. By and large, though, this is the best job since that of David Luke. Inclusion of the "Urfaust" make this a definite plus.

I am so happy to have received this book along with 7 others today as I rebuilt my collection!Slainte! 💚🤍🧡

Definitely recommend to those who cannot read it in German, but would like to get a full view on Goethe's transcendental perception of humanity - a key element to a deeper understanding of Western Culture; secondly, mainly the first part, to those who are keen for a poignant love story which is beautifully laid down before us in stunning meter and rhyme. John R. Williams arguably did what very few literary scholars have ever achieved - he adopted a complete work of Goethe's without runing into artistic decline.

It's written as a play, nothing wrong with that, but a bit disappointed

Love it. First book in a while read in rhymes.Easy language - interesting plot.