The Representation of the Darker Faustian Elements of the Walpurgisnacht and Mephistopheles in Heavy Metal and Rock Music

Author

Edgar Dan Hornback

Publication Date

12-14-2002

Abstract

There has been an association between the Faust drama and music which has endured for centuries. It is a tradition which is also influential during the present in rock music. The main characteristic of rock music and heavy metal is to reflect life in a realistic and an unapologetic manner in its lyrical content. Therefore, the combining of the drama with rock music is a natural and logical progression. The Walpurgisnacht and the character of Mephistopheles from the drama have been the vehicles to reflect the difficulties of modern life. The entire drama has also been adapted and set in the modern era in the form of rock operas. The negative reputation of rock music and heavy metal prevents many from examining it in an unbiased manner. The emphasis of this thesis is the exploration and examination of the influence of literature on rock music centering on the Faust drama.

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

German Studies

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures

First Committee Member (Chair)

Peter Karl Pabisch

Second Committee Member

Susanne Baackmann

Third Committee Member

Jeffery L. High

Recommended Citation

Hornback, Edgar Dan. "The Representation of the Darker Faustian Elements of the Walpurgisnacht and Mephistopheles in Heavy Metal and Rock Music." (2002). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/fll_etds/131