The Necromancer, or Harlequin Doctor Faustus and Harlequin Doctor

The Exploits of Harlequin, London, 1724.

This excerpt from yet another representation of the Faustus Harlequinades includes an absurd conversation between the Ass, the Owl, a Windmill, and the Dragon, all of which were stock figures in the series. The scene, which sets up Harlequin’s first entry on to the stage, represents his fateful signing of the contract in farcical terms. When the Devil promises him all the “Whores of the Universe,” Harlequin Faustus agrees immediately. The scene also depends on exchanges reminiscent of the commedia lazzi, dances, and songs.

From The Necromancer, or Harlequin Doctor Faustus and Harlequin Doctor

John Thurmond’s pantomime “Harlequin Dr. Faustus.”

Scene One of ‘The Necromancer or Harlequin Dr Faustus’ which opened at Lincoln's Inn Fields 20 December 1723.

This print, taken from The Necromancer, or Harlequin Dr. Faustus, shows a stage with an arch and crouching satyrs supporting urns. On stage, Mephistopheles (played by Richard Leveridge) is receiving the contract from Harlequin Faustus (played by John Rich). Upstage, we can see Faustus’s study, designated by his chair and table. The British Museum labels the print as from Thurmond’s pantomime, though the image allegedly shows Rich. Anonymous, 1724. Trustees of the British Museum.

From The Necromancer, or Harlequin Doctor Faustus and Harlequin Doctor