Those of us who have studied, been acquainted with, or strategically avoided German literature are undoubtedly familiar with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and his most famous work, Faust. In short, it is a tragic play, told in two parts, about a man obsessed with obtaining infinite knowledge who sells his soul to the devil followed by the all-too-familiar Goethe love story.
I was immediately drawn to the creepy illustrations done by Irish stained-glass artist and book illustrator, Harry Clarke. These images capture the way Faust made me feel while studying German literature in college: slightly confused, a bit uncomfortable, and oddly satisfied.
This illustrated edition of Faust was printed in 1925 by George G. Harrap & Co. in London. This limited edition copy is no. 535 of one thousand copies published for distribution in England and is signed by the illustrator.
Thank you, Harry, for your creepiness. It made my week.
-Elizabeth
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