Final answer:
In 'The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus,' the good and bad angels symbolize the inner conflict of Faustus as he grapples with decisions between morality and ambition, highlighting themes of free will and the consequences of one's choices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Symbolism of Angels in Doctor Faustus
The good and bad angels in The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus symbolize inner conflict within Faustus himself. The presence of these diametrically opposed figures reflects the choices between virtue and vice that Faustus faces, mirroring the internal debate between his moral conscience and his ambition. This personification of the moral struggle emphasizes the play's exploration of the human condition, free will, and the consequences of one's decisions, ultimately questioning the nature of fate versus personal responsibility. The good angel represents the path of redemption and morality, while the bad angel symbolizes temptation and the lure of power and knowledge at the cost of one's soul. They are not just agents of supernatural intervention but are deeply entrenched in Faustus's psychological and ethical dilemma, underscoring the play's thematic concerns with the limitations of human knowledge and the perils of overreaching ambition.