In the story of Faust, the eponymous hero makes a so-called deal with the Devil. Frustrated and ambitious, Faust agrees to take the offer of unlimited power. In return, Faust's soul will be lost and damned. The imagery is clear of course. For immediate, albeit temporary power, Faust makes the choice to be doomed rather than continue living his bounded and limited life. The Devil's temptation was too strong, and Faust too shortsighted in his hubristic...