ABSTRACT
The representations of the devil on the stage, it is reasonable to suppose, are largely traditional, hence the earlier nondramatic literature may be regarded as the source of many details of the figure of the devil. The devil as a dramatic figure presupposes a personal character having certain corporal attributes and having certain things to do; under the corporal attributes may be understood the outward appearance and name of the figure, under things to do, his actions and words. The devil is treated, as also in the Legends, as a real person in active relations to other persons and is thus made capable of furnishing motifs for dramatic action. The character of the devil in the English Mysteries is almost entirely serious. According to the Mysteries, the devils are fallen angels, in whom, as a result of the fall, a great transformation has taken place.
