This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 105A - History of English Literature – From 1350 to 1900, Sem - 1, 2023.
Unearthing Forbidden Knowledge: A Comparative Exploration of 'Tumbbad' and 'Doctor Faustus'
Table of Contents:-
- Personal Information
- Assignment Details
- Abstract
- Keywords
- Introduction
- Temptation of Forbidden Knowledge in "Tumbbad”
- Temptation of Forbidden Knowledge in “Doctor Faustus”
- Navigating Forbidden Realms: The Hazards of Crossing Boundaries
- The Psychological Impact of Seeking Power Beyond Human Limitations
- Conclusion
- References
Personal Information:-
- Name:- Dhatri Parmar
- Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)
- Enrollment Number:- 5108230032
- E-mail Address:-dhatriparmar291@gmail.com
- Roll Number:- 7
Assignment Details:-
- Topic:-Unearthing Forbidden Knowledge: A Comparative Exploration of 'Tumbbad' and 'Doctor Faustus
- Paper & subject code:- 105A - History of English Literature – From 1350 to
- 1900 & 22396
- Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU,
- Bhavnagar
- Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023
Abstract :
This paper explores the themes of ambition, transgression, and the psychological impact of seeking forbidden knowledge through a comparative analysis of the films 'Tumbbad' (2018) and 'Doctor Faustus' (1592). Both works show how tempting it is to seek forbidden knowledge because it offers things like power, wealth, and the ability to surpass our limits. But going after this knowledge usually has serious consequences, leading to a series of terrible events, moral decline, and ultimately, a very bad outcome.'Tumbbad' and 'Doctor Faustus' tell stories that warn us about the risks of wanting to know too much, reminding us that human ambition has two sides and that there's a fine line between what we know and what could harm us if we try to know too much.
Keywords :
Forbidden Knowledge, Ambition, Temptation, Tumbbad, Doctor Faustus
Introduction :
The human pursuit of knowledge has always been a double-edged sword, offering both enlightenment and destruction. In literature, the pursuit of knowledge mirrors a coin's two sides: one brings growth and understanding, as seen in 'Frankenstein,' yet the other side reveals risks and tragedy, exemplified by 'Macbeth.' These tales caution about the dual nature of seeking knowledge, highlighting its potential for enlightenment or ruin when ambition goes unchecked.Two fascinating stories, 'Tumbbad' (2018) and 'Doctor Faustus' (1592), both show how tempting and dangerous it can be to seek forbidden knowledge. This paper looks at these works side by side to explore ambition, the results of crossing boundaries, and the mental effects of wanting too much power.
Temptation of Forbidden Knowledge in "Tumbbad”:
"Tumbbad" is a critically acclaimed Indian fantasy horror film released in 2018, directed by Rahi Anil Barve.Vinayak, a young man from the film 'Tumbbad,' is driven by poverty and a desperate desire for wealth. This leads him to delve into the ancient folklore of the demon deity Hastar, a being associated with immense riches. The long, complicated story slowly comes out. A long time ago, the mother goddess had a greedy baby named Hastar. On account of his misappropriation of gold and food, the gods cursed him never to be worshiped.
Vinayak brings mysterious gold coins with him. Looking to sell the coins, he enters into an ill-fated deal with Raghav, a friend, moneylender, and merchant who’s hoping to bribe his way into a profitable opium-dealing license. His journey into the forbidden realm of Hastar's temple mirrors the allure of forbidden knowledge. This temptation promises power, riches, and the ability to surpass human limitations. However, it also comes at a steep price.
Temptation of Forbidden Knowledge in “Doctor Faustus” :
"Doctor Faustus" by Christopher Marlowe depicts a scholar's pact with the devil for knowledge, exploring moral dilemmas and consequences. In 'Doctor Faustus,'Faustus's quest for knowledge reaches its peak when he makes a pact, trading his soul for twenty-four years of indulgence, assisted by Mephistophilis. Lily B. Campbell in her article ‘Doctor Faustus: A Case of Conscience’ said that Whether spurred by the devil's manipulation or Faustus's longing for knowledge and power, he forsakes God and delves into dark magic to quench his thirst for extraordinary understanding and authority.(Campbell)
In "Doctor Faustus," Faustus's unquenchable thirst for knowledge is vividly depicted through his continuous quest for more. His dissatisfaction with reality not meeting his lofty expectations becomes evident in the famous lines where he summons Helen of Troy, expressing disappointment at her appearance. Faustus muses,
"Was this the face that launch'd a thousand ships, And burnt the topless towers of Illium?"(Marlowe #)
His famous lines, contemplating Helen of Troy, epitomize his disillusionment and longing for something greater than reality. When he conjures Helen, praising her beauty by recalling her role in igniting the Trojan War, Faustus highlights his yearning for transcendence beyond the limitations of his own existence.
This quest reflects Faustus's Faustian bargain, an agreement driven by his unquenchable thirst for knowledge and experience that surpasses human boundaries. His dissatisfaction with reality leads him to seek solace in the extraordinary, even if it means bargaining with darker forces. Faustus's constant search for more mirrors the human desire for the unknown, often resulting in a pursuit that transcends ethical or moral boundaries in the quest for enlightenment or fulfillment.
Navigating Forbidden Realms: The Hazards of Crossing Boundaries
According to Tasha Robinson, Tumbbad cleverly symbolizes how Vinayak's dreams drain away his freedom and joy, trapping him in a never-ending nightmare. His wealth comes with a heavy price, and he can't shake off the burden. He ends up resenting those around him who benefit from his wealth without enduring the same costs. Struggling to release his riches yet unable to find real happiness, Vinayak spirals into deeper and darker indulgences. It is evident in this lines.(Robinson)
“बंद दरवाजों के पीछे, धरती के गर्भ में क्या छिपा है? वह कौन सा रहस्य है जिसे पीढ़ियों ने गंभीरता से संरक्षित किया है? जब तुम्हें कभी वापस न लौटने की चेतावनी दी गई है तब भी तुम मुँह क्यों नहीं मोड़ सकते? सोने का लालच. लालच। एक राक्षस जिसे इस हद तक खाना खिलाना पड़ता है कि वापस लौटना संभव नहीं है।”
The true monster in the story of Tumbbad isn't solely the repulsive old woman or the tangible horrors she embodies through her actions. Instead, it's the inherent quality of Vinayak amidst other crucial elements that lures the characters into a deceptive path, enticing them with the promise of prosperity while leading them towards ruin. Similar to Myth of Tithonus, a beautiful man who was chosen by goddess of Aurora, the goddess of dawn, as her lover. She granted him immortality but not youth. This leads to eternal suffering same as Vinayaka's grandmother and Vinayaka.
While in Doctor Faustus, Faustus becomes dissatisfied with traditional academic pursuits like logic, medicine, and law. He craves something more than natural philosophy can provide, declaring "A sound magician is a mighty god".(Marlowe #) This yearning leads him to sorcery, necromancy, and demonology - practices clearly forbidden and dangerous.
Despite the warnings of the Good Angel, Faustus proceeds with the forbidden ritual to conjure Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles says that,"Knowledge is power, and therefore all men crave for it." (Marlowe #) Consequently,Faustus faces a big moral problem by seeking knowledge from the devil. He states that,"I have not lived in vain, and therefore I am not afraid of death." (Marlowe #) He chooses to trade his soul and do bad things to gain power. This main issue is what the entire play focuses on. It shows Faustus being willing to give up eternal happiness just for temporary power in the world.
The Psychological Impact of Seeking Power Beyond Human Limitations :
“Tumbbad” shows how Vinayak's obsession is taking a toll on his mental health. The dark atmosphere, the strange images, and the unsettling sounds all help to show how Vinayak is going mad. Vinayak is now haunted by the monstrous creatures that are associated with Hastar. These creatures are a constant reminder of the bad things he has done and the bad things that will happen to him because of them.
Additionally, Vinayak's obsession with wealth and power has not only isolated him from society, but it has also made him a cruel and unfeeling person.In a tragic turn of events, Vinayak's obsession turns him into a monster. He now looks like the creatures he was trying to take advantage of. This change shows that Vinayak has lost all of his humanity and is now completely consumed by his desire for wealth and power.
Vinayak’s Gruesome punishment is highlighted by realistic VFX from Sean Wheelan and Filmgate Films in Sweden, which created the CG work and animated 3D characters, including the magnificent, hair-raising flayed devil. (Prasad and Chan)
Similarly, Faustus's pact with Mephistopheles leads to a profound sense of guilt, alienation, and a loss of his humanity. As the final hour of his life approaches, Faustus, bound by his pact with the devil, contemplates his inevitable descent into hell. In a moment of despair, he turns to God, acknowledging the transformative power of Christ's blood. Overwhelmed by his impending doom, Faustus yearns for the mountains to collapse upon him, wishing for the earth to swallow him whole. He desires an escape from the eternity of suffering that awaits him.
“Their souls are soon dissolv'd in elements;
But mine must live still to be plagu'd in hell.
Curs'd be the parents that engender'd me!
No, Faustus, curse thyself, curse Lucifer
That hath depriv'd thee of the joys of heaven.” (Marlowe #)
In a desperate plea, Faustus wishes to be transformed into a soulless creature, exempt from the torment of hell and the rewards of heaven. As the clock strikes midnight, Faustus's final request, to be turned into air or droplets lost in the ocean, falls on deaf ears. He is dragged away to face his eternal punishment, having spent his final hour clinging to vain hopes of salvation. His story serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of seeking power beyond human limitations and the importance of seeking redemption before it is too late.
Conclusion
Examining "Tumbbad" and "Doctor Faustus" allows exploration of how diverse cultures and storytelling traditions address the Temptation of Knowledge, showcasing its moral complexities. Both stories emphasize the psychological effects of transgression, revealing the consequences of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power beyond human limits, leading to downfall, madness, and isolation. These narratives serve as compelling reminders of the fine line between human knowledge and the risks associated with delving into the unknown.
References :
Barve, Rahi Anil, director. Tumbbad. Eros International Sohum Shah Films Colour Yellow Productions Film i Väst Filmgate Films, 2018. (Barve)
Campbell, Lily B. “Doctor Faustus: A Case of Conscience.” JSTOR, 16 June 2023, https://doi.org/10.2307/460096. Accessed 20 November 2023.
Marlowe, Christopher. The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2017.
Prasad, Adesh, and Tim Chan. “'Tumbbad' Review – The Hollywood Reporter.” The Hollywood Reporter, 30 August 2018, https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/tumbbad-1137591/. Accessed 20 November 2023.
Robinson, Tasha. “The hit Indian horror Tumbbad is shocking in the best way.” Polygon, 30
Words : 1808
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