To answer the question proposed by the title, there are two aspects to consider. We must first decide whether Doctor Faustus is a morality play; I will do this by discussing the form, content, and subject matter of the piece in an attempt to categorize the piece. I will also offer an alternative argument by saying that the play is in fact a tragedy. Second, we must decide whether or not it has morality; To do this, I will consider the tone of certain parts of the play, notably the speeches of the Chorus as well as the speeches of the other characters. Let’s first address the categorization of the piece. To determine whether Dr. Faustus is a moral play or not, we must first know what a moral play is. Morality plays are essentially dramatized sermons usually based on the theme of repentance; Typically, an Everyman figure will begin in innocence, be led into temptation by others, and ultimately be redeemed. In Dr. Faustus Marlowe uses the structure of the moral play extensively, particularly in the characters he uses, as many of them are representations of types rather than individuals. For example, the characters Valdes and Cornelius are known as "tempters", thus fitting the moral definition of characters who tempt the main character into sin (although they are not alone in this). Good and bad angels can also be seen as characters in morality plays, although this depends on whether or not we view them as real otherworldly characters or as externalizations of one's own thoughts and consciousness of Faustus. There is nothing in the text that determines precisely which view is correct. However, Faustus's speech in Act II Scene I implies that these are externalizations of his conscience; Why are you hesitating? O som...... middle of paper......because of the style of the time or because it had the right form for what Marlowe wanted to say. Concerning the moral within the play, there is certainly one (at least) which is proposed by several characters. However, I don't believe that the play was written with the sole purpose of offering a moral and that it would be just as strong without it. Despite the moral given and aspects of the moral structure of the play, the play remains above all the tragedy of an individual.BibliographyMarlowe, Christopher Dr Faustus in ed. WB Worthen (1996) The Harcourt Brace Anthology of Drama, 2nd ed., Texas: Harcourt BraceSteane, JB (1965) Marlowe Cambridge: Cambridge University PressWilson, FP (1953) Marlowe and the Early Shakespeare Oxford: Clarendon PressThe Oxford English Dictionary (1989) ) ), Second edition, volume XVIII. Oxford: Clarendon Press