Night and Outside the Town Wall Summary

The play opens with Faust in his study reviewing his great knowledge but finding that his studies have all been fruitless. Since he has gained no fame or wealth from his knowledge Faust decides to turn to magic in order to determine the secrets of the world. He feels cramped by his study and the small world that his brain by itself can grasp and desires the freedom that witchcraft will bring. As Faust begins his studies into witchcraft and conjures his first spirit, he is interrupted by Wagner, a young man who studies under Faust. He has heard the cries and believes Faust is reading a play. Wagner wishes to share the experience with Faust. Wagner and Faust converse for awhile with Faust trying to steer Wagner away from a career in...