Jack Faust

by Michael Swanwick
Jack Faust cover
Good Books rating 3.7
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 6926
  • Added: 2025-12-06
  • Updated: 2025-12-06
  • ISBN: 9781504036481
  • Publisher: Open Road Media
  • Published: 2016-05-31
  • Reviews: 3

Michael Swanwick's Jack Faust is an alternate-history reimagining of the classic Faust legend, set in Old World Germany. The story begins with Dr. Johannes Faust, a renowned scholar who, in his despair over the vastness of his ignorance, burns his books and inadvertently summons Mephistopheles, a tempter spirit from a dying alien race. This spirit offers Faust knowledge of science, technology, and economics, leading to a prosperous golden age for Germany. However, Faust's love for the beautiful Margarete becomes his downfall, raising questions about the dangers of unchecked pursuit of knowledge and power./n/n Nominated for multiple awards, including the Hugo and Locus Awards, Jack Faust is a masterful blend of historical fiction and science fiction. Swanwick's retelling explores themes of temptation, the consequences of ambition, and the ethical boundaries of scientific advancement. The novel's rich historical setting and thought-provoking narrative make it a standout in the genre.

Reviews
Speculiction Blog · 2017-08-07
engaging 4.00

The book is a quality reinterpretation of the classic German legend, starting with fire and brimstone and maintaining a strong narrative throughout.

This book is a fantastic reinterpretation of the Faust story, blending elements of science fiction and fantasy. The narrative starts with a bang and keeps the momentum going throughout. The character of Faust is particularly compelling, and the story's exploration of knowledge and its consequences is both engaging and thought-provoking. The author's writing style is vivid and energetic, making the story a pleasure to read. However, some might find the ending a bit nihilistic, but it's a powerful conclusion to a gripping tale.

Quick quotes

    In the end, Jack Faust is a quality reinterpretation of the classic German legend that opens with fire and brimstone, coasts through the mid and ...

    The book-burning, knowledge-seeking Faust at the beginning of the novel is much more interesting and sympathetic.

    A vivid and energetic reworking, set forth with all Swanwick's considerable skill.

Goodreads · 2000-01-01
thought-provoking 3.60

The book uses the Faust legend to explore the dark and pessimistic aspects of modernity. It is a thought-provoking meditation on social, moral, and spiritual issues.

This novel takes the classic Faust legend and uses it as a framework to delve into the darker side of modern society. The story is a deep exploration of the consequences of our actions and the moral dilemmas we face. It's a challenging read that will make you think about the world in a new way. The author's skillful writing brings the characters to life, making the story both engaging and thought-provoking. However, the pessimistic tone might not be for everyone, but it's a powerful commentary on the human condition.

Quick quotes

    Swanwick uses the Faust legend here as a literary conceit for a very dark and pessimistic meditation on the social, moral and spiritual results of modernity.

    It's a gripping retelling of the classic tale.

    The book is a vivid and energetic reworking of the Faust story.

Kirkus Reviews · 2000-01-01
compelling 3.50

The book is a vivid and energetic reworking of the Faust story, but it leaves the reader questioning its ultimate purpose.

This novel is a vivid and energetic retelling of the Faust legend, showcasing the author's considerable skill. The story is compelling and well-crafted, with a strong narrative drive. However, despite its strengths, the book leaves the reader wondering about its deeper meaning and purpose. The character of Faust is well-developed, and the exploration of knowledge and its consequences is both engaging and thought-provoking. The ending might feel a bit unsatisfying to some, but the journey is certainly worth taking.

Quick quotes

    A vivid and energetic reworking, set forth with all Swanwick's considerable skill.

    And yet the reader is constrained to ask, so what?

    The book-burning, knowledge-seeking Faust at the beginning of the novel is much more interesting and sympathetic.

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