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Faust (FAUSTUS DR JOHANN a famous)

or FAUSTUS, DR. JOHANN, a famous magician, about whose name and existence so many obscure legends have grown, lived in the beginning of the 16th century, and was probably born at Knittlingen, in Suabia. After receiving his education at Wittenberg, he went to Ingolstadt, where he studied medicine, astrology, and magic, and occupied himself in alchemical experiments. Faust was a man of great scientific acquirements; and, according to legendary tradition, he made use of his powers to inspire his countrymen with a firm belief that he had dealings with the devil. The story of Dr. Faustus furnished the subject of a remarkable dramatic poem by Christopher Marlowe, and has been immortalized by the genius of Goethe. Gounod's well-known opera is also founded on this character.