A brief history of the devil - Brian A. Pavlac

Summary

This video script explores the evolution of the devil figure, from the minor character in the Old Testament to a complex antagonist in literature and art. It traces the development from Satan's initial portrayal as a tempter and tormentor in the New Testament to his diverse forms in medieval and Renaissance art, including Dante's 'Inferno' and Milton's 'Paradise Lost.' The script also touches on the Faustian legend and the modern reinterpretations of the devil as a trickster in popular culture, reflecting the enduring fascination with this figure.

Takeaways

• 😈 Satan, Lucifer, and Mephistopheles are all figures based on the Old Testament's Satan, who was originally a minor character.
• 📜 In the New Testament, Satan's role expands to include tempting Jesus and being depicted as a dragon, influencing medieval art.
• 🎨 Michael Pacher's painting and Dante's 'Inferno' show Satan as a monstrous figure, yet also evoke sympathy.
• 🕊️ The Renaissance period saw a shift in Satan's depiction, with artists portraying him in more human forms, inspired by Pan.
• 📚 John Milton's 'Paradise Lost' presents Satan as a charismatic rebel, influencing later views of him as a complex character.
• 💫 The Romantics of the 1800s viewed Milton's Lucifer as a heroic figure who defied authority in pursuit of truth.
• 📖 The German legend of Doctor Faust explores the consequences of making a deal with the devil for personal gain.
• 👹 Different versions of the Faust legend present Mephistopheles in varying lights, from a willing partner to a deceptive trickster.
• 🔥 The term 'Faustian bargain' has come to represent a deal where one sacrifices moral integrity for short-term benefits.
• 👺 Modern depictions of the devil, including in comic books and film, often portray him as a charming trickster in a red suit.

Q & A

What are the three divergent devils mentioned in the script?

The three divergent devils mentioned are Satan, Lucifer, and Mephistopheles.

How does the Satan of the Old Testament differ from the literary devils based on him?

The Satan of the Old Testament is a relatively minor character with scant information about his deeds or appearance, unlike the more developed literary devils.

What role does Satan play in the New Testament?

In the New Testament, Satan tempts Jesus, uses demons to possess people, and appears as a giant dragon who is cast into hell.

How did medieval artists and writers depict Satan, and what inspired this depiction?

Medieval artists and writers depicted Satan as a scaled, shaggy-furred creature with overgrown toenails, inspired by the image of Satan as a dragon in the New Testament.

In Dante Alighieri’s 'Inferno,' how is Satan described and what emotions does he evoke in the protagonist?

In 'Inferno,' Satan is described as a three-headed, bat-winged behemoth who feasts on sinners. The protagonist feels both disgust and sympathy for the trapped beast.

How did the depiction of the devil change during the Renaissance?

During the Renaissance, the devil started to assume a more human form, often depicted as a man with cloven hooves and curling horns.

What is the significance of John Milton's Lucifer in 'Paradise Lost'?

Milton's Lucifer is significant as he is depicted as a charismatic rebel angel who starts a rebellion against God's power, becoming Satan and preferring to rule in hell than serve in heaven.

How did the Romantics of the 1800s view Milton's Lucifer?

The Romantics viewed Milton's Lucifer as a heroic figure who defied higher power in pursuit of essential truths, despite the tragic consequences.

What is the Faustian bargain, and how does it relate to the German legend of Doctor Faust?

A Faustian bargain refers to a trade that sacrifices integrity for short-term gains, relating to the German legend of Doctor Faust who pledges his soul to the devil for bottomless pleasure.

How does Mephistopheles, the devil's messenger, differ in various adaptations of the Faust legend?

In Christopher Marlowe's account, Mephistopheles is a cynical character happy to strike a deal with Doctor Faustus, while in Johann Wolfgang van Goethe’s version, he tricks Faust into a grisly deal.

How has the devil's image evolved in modern times, as mentioned in the script?

In modern times, the devil's image has evolved to include a charming trickster in red tights and cape, as seen in Goethe’s play, and has influenced depictions in comic books, advertising, and film.